Chionin Temple

Standing proudly at the foot of Kyoto's eastern hills, Chionin is the revered head temple of the widely practiced Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism. Visitors are immediately humbled by the colossal two-story Sanmon Gate, the largest surviving wooden gate structure in Japan, before ascending the stone stairways into the sprawling complex. The grounds feature monumental worship halls, tranquil strolling gardens, and one of the heaviest sacred bells in the country. A visit here offers a peaceful, awe-inspiring encounter with monumental classical architecture and living spiritual tradition.

• Temple
• Historic Landmark
• Architecture
• Buddhism