Chion In Temple Travel Report - Kimberly 2008 Chioin Temple report

Experience

First Visit

Purpose of your visit

travel (sight seeing)

Impressions

Chioin temple is a large wooden structure and is impressive.

Details

Chionin is the head temple for a sect of Buddhism known as Jodo. Jodo has been around since the late 1100s and is still one of the most popular sects of Buddhism in Japan. Chionin was built in 1234. However, all of the original buildings are gone. (due to earthquakes and fires) The oldest remaining structures date from the 17th century. The biggest attraction here is Sanmon gate which is the largest temple gate in Japan at 24 meters high. Everything seems to be on a massive scale at this temple. The temple bell weighs more then 10 cars and is serious huge. It was cast in 1633 and is the largest bell in Japan. The main hall can hold 3000 people! One interesting feature of the main hall is that the floors are designed to "sing" when you step on them. This is a ancient japanese method of defence against intruders. Call it a 1600th century burglar alarm :).

Advice

Directions ************* Chionin is located just north of Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park. It is close to Higashiyama Station (Tozai Line). ****************

Recommended for...

sight seeing photography

Tags

Chion In Temple     Kyoto     Japan     Japan Travel     Japanese Places