Tag: Kyoto Travel Blog

Kyoto Temple Shrine Hopping – Tenryuji
We make our way to the quiet and serene Arashiyama region to visit Tenryuji (å¤©é¾å¯º) the next morning. Tenryuji literally means “Temple of Heavenly Dragon” and is often deemed as one of the greatest Zen temples in Kyoto. The story goes about a priest who interpreted that the deceased Emperor was not resting in peace after dreaming of a golden dragon rising from a river. Hence, the temple was built at the former Emperorâ€™s villa site to allay his spirit.
The charming Tenryuji
Mode of transport to the scenic Arashiyama region is via Randen Tram line. The one and only tram line in Kyoto which has been operating for over 100 years! Thatâ€™s cool!
Tenryuji is just right across the street from Randen Arashiyama Station. It will be difficult to miss the big stone carved with Chinese characters â€œå¤§æœ¬å±±å¤©é¾å¯ºâ€.
The entrance fee for the main hall costs 100 JPY (S$1.2) whereas the majestic Sogenchi Garden will costs 500 JPY (S$6).
Tenryuji also suffered the similar ill fate like some of great shrines and temples in Kyotoâ€¦the buildings were burnt down and rebuilt several times. Only the Zen garden survived in its original form till today.
And here are some of the dragon pictures we come across while walking the halls.
However, the main hall with the Cloud Dragon painting was closed for renovation. This is where the painted dragon will always appear to be looking straight at you in whichever direction you view it from. Better luck next time I hope.
The beautiful Sogenchi Garden
The scenic Sogenchi Garden (æ›¹æºæ± åºåœ’) is perhaps the main attraction. And rightly so, I can imagine just how wonderful it would be to visit here during autumn or cherry blossom season. Still, being here in the month of February didnâ€™t take any Zen-ness away from it. The peaceful landscape around the garden has a very nice and calming effect in settling oneâ€™s thoughts.
Sagano Bamboo Grove
One Arashiyama attraction which is closely linked to Tenryuji is none other than the infamous Sagano bamboo grove (åµå±±ç«¹æž—). Itâ€™s just a short walk from the massive ground to the bamboo marvel. From the northern gate, take a left turn and follow the path, it will be hard to miss the bamboo trees.
The pathway flanked by rows of giant bamboos trees is truly a sight to behold, especially when the massive bamboo trees sway in the occasional wind. Itâ€™s magical to be strolling in this beautiful and picturesque setting.
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What are your thoughts about Tenryuji or Sagano Bamboo Grove? Leave a comment and share it with me.
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April 30, 2014
Kyoto Temple Shrine Hopping – Chion In
After visiting Kiyomizu dera, we slowly make our way to Chion In temple (çŸ¥æ©é™¢). Upon reaching, the first awesome sight we notice is the massive front gate, also known as the Sanmon (å±±é–€). In fact, Chion in templeâ€™s Sanmon is the largest wooden gate in Japan.
Being the headquarters to one of the influential Buddhist sects in Japan – JÅdo-shÅ« (æµ„åœŸå®—), the temple boost some spacious ground area and massive buildings.
After passing through the stunning Sanmon, the next thing that greets us is the steep stairs. The climb up to the main hall ainâ€™t trivial but we managed.
Chion In Main Hall
Everything here seems to be on a grander scale – we’re impressed. The huge main hall is populated with praying devotees. One has to remove the shoes before entering the main hall where the priests are chanting. The squeaking floor board which we walk on was to prevent unwanted intruders in the past, and not because of some poor material used.
It is also possible to visit the top floor of Chion In templeâ€™s Sanmon. I bought the ticket and proceed to the stairs. There is a dark room on top which houses Buddha statues (as shown on the ticket) but I can barely see them in the dimly lit room. Also, photography is strictly prohibited inside the room. Well, at least the view up here is good.
Where are the Geisha??
We continued walking towards Gion district and the famous Pontocho (å…ˆæ–—ç”º) hopping to catch a glimpse of the Geisha. But sadly, we saw noneâ€¦perhaps due to the heavy rain.
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What are your thoughts about Chion In? Leave a comment and share it with me.
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April 22, 2014