Shrines & Temples of Kyoto

Prior to my trip, I found out that Kyoto is home to more than 1600 Buddhist temples.  I have no idea how any city could hold that many temples, when you consider the fact that there are many other important monuments and buildings in the city.

Beginning with Kiyomizu Temple (清水寺) located in Eastern Kyoto, this turned out to be one of my favourite temples in Kyoto.  It is a UNESCO site that includes a main hall, perched high up on several pillars overlooking a vast city skyline, as well as the Jishu-jinja Shrine, otherwise known as a matchmaking shrine.

There are 2 big stones at the Jinshu-jinja Shrine, and legend has it that if you can walk between the 2 stones with your eyes closed, your wish will be soon granted.  If you can’t walk between the 2 stones with your eyes closed, then it will be a while before you find love.  I was expecting the stones to be quite far apart, and with the number of tourists at this place, it would be very difficult to walk between the 2 stones.  However, in reality, the distance between the 2 stones wasn’t that far.

Kiyomizu Temple
Address: 294 Kiyomizu 1-chome, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0862, Japan
Phone: +81 75-551-1234

On our second day in Kyoto, we had the opportunity to visit Heien Shrine before heading to Ginkakuji Temple.  The Heian Shrine (平安神宮) is an important part of Kyoto’s history, as it signifies the revival of the city.  The shrine has significant cultural significance and ranks as one of the top shrines in Kyoto. 

Aside from the shrine, there is also a large garden on the property.  As it was cherry blossom season, there were a large number of locals and tourists who had their tripods with them to capture the beauty of these flowers. 

Heian Shrine
Address: Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 606-8341, Japan
Phone: +81 75-761-0221

 

We made our way to Ginkakuji Temple (銀閣寺), otherwise known as the Silver Pavilion.  It is a Zen Temple and was modeled after the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion).  Aside from the pavilion, the complex consists of a garden, several temples and even a dry sand garden. 

The entrance is a narrow path surrounded by tall shrubs on both sides.  It was kind of strange and seemed unusual for Japan.  After a brief walk, we made it to an open area full of people.

Ginkakuji Temple
Address: 2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 606-8402, Japan
Phone: +81 75-771-5725