About Chionin(Temple)

Chion-in Temple, located in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, is the head temple of the Jodo sect and one of Japan's representative historical temples, known as the place where Honen, the founder of the Jodo sect, spread his teachings and laid the foundation of the Jodo sect in 1175. Chion-in Temple is a sacred place for followers of the Jodo sect and is a popular attraction for many visitors and tourists.

Chion-in's most distinctive features are its magnificent architecture and vast precincts. In particular, its main gate, Sanmon, is one of the largest wooden gates in Japan and has an overwhelming presence. The Sanmon Gate was built in 1621 with a donation from Tokugawa Hidetada and is designated as a national treasure. Its imposing appearance is a true symbol of the beauty and skill of Japanese architecture, and is a source of amazement to visitors.

The grounds of the temple are dotted with beautiful gardens and many historical buildings. In particular, the “Mikageido” is the main building dedicated to Honen Shonin, and inside it are preserved many Buddhist statues and decorations designated as important cultural properties. There are also gardens, such as the “Daihojo Garden” and the “Yuzen Garden,” where visitors can enjoy seasonal scenery, making it a popular place for visitors to calm their minds in tranquility.

Furthermore, Chion-in Temple has many legends and anecdotes known as the “Seven Wonders of Chion-in Temple,” and one of its attractions is to tour the temple grounds in search of them. For example, visitors can experience history and culture through such wondrous tales passed down from generation to generation, such as “The Forgotten Umbrella” and “The Sparrow on the White Wall.

Chion-in also offers various Buddhist experiences, such as Zen meditation, sutra copying, and Buddhist lectures, which allow visitors to deeply experience the teachings of Buddhism. These programs provide visitors with a time of quiet reflection and a good opportunity to purify their minds.

Chion-in Temple is a special place not only for those seeking to experience Kyoto's history and culture, but also for those seeking inner peace. In this place where magnificent architecture, abundant nature, and deep religious beliefs intersect, visitors will experience a moment where the past meets the present.