Chion-in Temple is a large and very popular temple. Its massive front gate, the largest of its kind in Japan, is an awesome sight. The grounds are often full of people who pray in front of the images of the main hall. You may see people standing in front of a large brazier, holding small sticks of incense, or waving the fragrant smoke over their heads in an effort to receive inspiration and wisdom.

 

The temple also has the largest bell in Japan on its grounds, one that reputedly weighs more than several city buses! Standing just north of Maruyama Park and Yasaka-jinja Shrine, the temple grounds are free to enter and are a natural part of any walking tour of Kyoto's Higashiyama District.

 

The temple began its days as a modest hut occupied by the priest Honen, founder of the influential Jodo (Pure Land) sect of Buddhism. His teachings were simple to grasp and attracted a large following. Chion-in Temple is now the head temple of the Pure Land Sect of Buddhist movement.