History:

is that Chion-in was established in 1234 by the priest Hōnen. It is the head temple of the Jōdo-shū, one of the largest and most influential Japanese Buddhist sects. Located in Kyoto, Chion-in's large complex covers an area of approximately 58,000 square meters (624,000 square feet). The temple is known for its traditional Japanese architecture, its beautiful gardens, and the great bell of Chion-in. The bell, which weighs 74 tons and is rung annually on New Year's Day, is said to be the largest in Japan. It is one of the best temple in Japan which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Chion-in is a temple located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan. 2. Founded in 1234, it is the head temple of the Jōdo-shū Buddhist sect. 3. The main temple building is the largest wooden structure in Japan and was declared a National Treasure of Japan in 1952. 4. The main temple is preceded by the Sanmon gate, a two-storied, thatched roof gate, which is also a National Treasure. 5. Other important buildings within the complex, open to the public, include Daiko-do, a large pagoda, Shōrō, a bell tower, and the Reception Hall. 6. The temple complex is famous for the Hōzōmon (Treasure Gate) and its Nihon-dō, the temple library, which contains many ancient manuscripts and valuable documents. 7. Chion-in also features a famous Tōrō lantern before the Hōzōmon gate, as well as an Aqueduct system and a tea ceremony room. 8. During the New Year period, Chion-in hosts a plethora of visitors who want to visit the main temple and other related buildings to participate in or watch festive activities such as traditional dances and musical performances. Here are some facts about the Japan temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Japan

Worship Method:

, Chion-in is a head temple of the Jōdo-shū Buddhist sect. The worship method of Chion-in is based on Jōdo-shū, which is rooted in Pure Land meditative Buddhism. At Chion-in, visitors may participate in services held in the grand main hall of Ngaku-do Hall, or the Hojō Hall, both of which are located in the Chion-in compound. The general form of a service is as follows: 1. Passing through the Jizo-mon Gate and offering incense to Kannon-daishi. 2. Offering incense and prostrating in front of Kannon-daishi statue in the Goei-do Hall. 3. Passage through the Daito-mon Gate and offering incense to the Four Heavenly Kings. 4. Joining the San-ju-san-sho liturgy in the main hall. 5. Emission of Heart Sutra and meditation together with many other people in the main hall. 6. Begging for Buddhism scriptures from the Chadōka and receiving them. 7. Chanting Vandana Sutra after all vows have been committed. 8. Offering incense to the altar and paying respects to Amitabha Buddha’s statue. 9. Sending off the scriptures to the Four Heavenly Kings. 10. Chanting the ‘Nembutsu‘ in the main hall. 11. Attending services that mark important days in Jōdo-shū’s calendar. This most visited temple in Japan

Opening Timing:

Chion-in is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. top temples in Japan

How to reach:

The easiest way to reach Chion-in is by train. From Tokyo’s main train station, Tokyo Station, take the JR Nara Line to Demachiyanagi Station and transfer to the Keihan Line towards Demachiyanagi. Get off at Gojo Station and walk 5 minutes to Chion-in. The total journey should take around 2 hours and 30 minutes. famous temples in Japan