Tag: travel

Chionin (知恩院)

You might have seen this temple’s impressive stairs in the movie The Last Samurai.  The head temple of the Jōdo-shū, or Pure Land Sect, it was first constructed in 1234.  Famous for its impressive Sanmon Gate (1619), Chionin is also where you can find Japan’s largest temple bell (1633), which weighs 74 tons and 17 people to sound it.  And I thought the one near my house was loud.

As you walk on the wooden floor boards you might be surprised to discover that they make the same chirping sound you heard at Nijo castle.  That’s so when the Tokugawa family visited they would be able to identify anyone coming to kill them.  If you think that’s paranoid, ask Nobunaga.

During Autumn (November 2-30, 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., 800 yen), you can visit at night with the leaves illuminated.  It’s also recommended that you stop by nearby Shoren-in Temple and Kiyomizudera which also have nighttime displays.

How Much:  300 yen

Hours:  9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but no entry after 4 p.m.

How Do You Get There:  Either take the Tozai subway to Higashiyama Station (15 minute walk) or take city bus 206 to the Chion-in-mae stop.  Address is 400 Rinka-cho, Higashiyama-ku.

Note:  Information is subject to change.  Please verify details as they were only accurate when written, if that.