buddhism
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Seiryu-ji: Beautiful Buddhist Temple in the Mountains of Satsuma
In southern Kagoshima Prefecture lies the Satsuma Peninsula, an extremely mountainous region with beautiful beaches, stunning volcanoes and a long history intertwined with Japan’s. Near the middle of this peninsula lies a solitary temple inspired by Chinese designs. Named Seiryu-ji, it is stunning for not only the artwork on display but also its golden pavillion.…
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Sazaedo: Temple with a Double-Helix Staircase
In Fukushima Prefecture’s Aizu region lies Aizu-Wakamatsu, the largest town. In addition to hosting famous sites, such as the Tsuruga Castle: Eastern Japan’s Largest Castle, Aizu-Wakamatsu has something unique: Sazaedo. What is Sazaedo? Sazaedo, or the “Sea Snail Temple,” is a three-storey pagoda built in 1796 to house 33 statues of the goddess Kannon, an…
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Eiheiji Temple: Temple in the Shape of a Seated Buddha
Approximately half an hour east of Fukui City lies Eiheiji Temple. Founded in 1244, it is one of the two head temples of Soto Zen Buddhism. In addition to the amazing setting (a forested valley in the mountains), the buildings form the shape of a seated Buddha. History of Eiheiji Temple Eiheiji Temple was founded…
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Osorezan: Sacred Mountains in the Shape of a Lotus
Located in Aomori Prefecture’s Shimokita Peninsula, Osorezan (which translates as “Dread Mountain”) is one of the prefecture’s must-see sights. This sacred mountain plays a large role in Japanese Buddhism and has done so for over 1,000 years. History A dream The story of Osorezan, which is synonymous with the Bodai-ji Temple here, started with a…
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Kozenji: Unveiling the Enchanting Gardens in Kiso, Japan
Nestled amidst the verdant mountains of Kiso Valley, Japan, lies Kozenji, a Zen Buddhist temple exuding an ethereal charm. Founded in 1434 by the formidable Kiso Nobumichi, this historic gem transcends its physical form, transforming into a sanctuary of serenity and cultural significance. Kozenji: A Legacy Steeped in History Kozenji’s past is interwoven with the…
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Zenko-ji Temple: A Spiritual Journey in the Heart of Nagano
Nestled amidst the tranquillity of Nagano, the city renowned for its snow-draped mountains and the 1998 Winter Olympics, resides Zenko-ji Temple, a cornerstone of Japan’s cultural and spiritual legacy. A pilgrimage site with over 1,400 years of history, it draws the devoted and those in search of an intimate interaction with Japan’s pulsating history and…
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Mitaki-Dera: A Hidden Gem of Hiroshima
Tucked away on the verdant slopes of Mt. Mitaki, Mitaki-Dera temple is a serene sanctuary that whispers stories of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Hidden in the depths of a lush forest in Hiroshima City, Japan, this peaceful Buddhist temple invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in tranquillity, away from the…
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Daisho-in Temple: An Unforgettable Spiritual Journey
Nestled on holy Mount Misen’s slopes on Miyajima Island, the Daisho-in Temple is a lesser-known gem of Japan’s religious and cultural heritage. It is a crucial cornerstone of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. The temple offers a serene sanctuary, far removed from the bustling energy of urban life. Brimming with history, spiritual significance, and…
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Kenninji: A Journey Through Zen in Kyoto’s Oldest Zen Temple
Kyoto, the city of a thousand temples, resonates with the echo of ancient chants, the fragrance of incense, and the sight of age-old traditions and architecture. In this city, where culture and history intertwine, one finds a quiet oasis of serenity known as Kenninji. As Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, Kenninji beckons to those seeking to…
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Kofukuji Temple: A Testament to Japanese Buddhism and Art
Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, is a city steeped in history and culture. Among its many treasures, Kofukuji temple stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese Buddhism, art, and architecture. Founded in 669 AD, Kofukuji temple has a long and storied past that has shaped the city’s history and culture. Today, the…
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Higashi Hongan-ji: Exploring One of Kyoto’s Most Impressive Temples
Kyoto, Japan exudes history, culture, and spirituality. As the former imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto boasts an array of temples, shrines, and other religious and cultural landmarks that have survived for centuries. One such landmark is Higashi Hongan-ji, a large temple complex located in central Kyoto. Higashi Hongan-ji is the head temple of the Jodo…
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Exploring Kinkaku-ji: Kyoto’s Iconic Golden Temple
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. The temple is one of the most iconic and beautiful landmarks in Kyoto. It draws in thousands of visitors each year. The temple’s main attraction is the Golden Pavilion, a three-story pavilion covered in gold leaf…
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Exploring Nanzen-ji Temple in Kyoto: Beyond the Crowds
Kyoto’s Nanzen-ji is one of the most significant Zen temples in Japan and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese history, culture, and spirituality. Located at the foot of Kyoto’s eastern mountains, Nanzen-ji boasts beautiful gardens, stunning architecture, and a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller…
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Konchi-in: Unveiling the Beauty of Kyoto’s Serene Zen Temple and Gardens
Kyoto, Japan is a city renowned for its rich history, culture, and spirituality. Among its many treasures, Kyoto boasts the Konchi-in temple, a serene and beautiful destination that showcases the best of Japanese architecture and design. Konchi-in is a small temple located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. It is famous for its stunning gardens,…
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Byodoin Temple: Exploring an Icon of Japanese Buddhism
Nestled in the charming town of Uji, just a short train ride away from Kyoto, lies a temple of unparalleled beauty and historical significance – Byodoin. With its striking architecture and serene gardens, Byodoin is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history. In fact, Byodoin is so iconic that it even…
