Hōrin-ji, Buddhist temple in Arashiyama district, Kyoto, Japan
Hōrin-ji is a Buddhist temple in the Arashiyama district of Nishikyō Ward in Kyoto, Japan, built on the slopes of Mount Kokuso across several levels. Stone steps lead up to the main hall, flanked by carved stone tigers and oxen that guard the entrance.
The monk Gyoki founded this place in 713 during the reign of Empress Genmei to promote peace across the land and good harvests. Later generations expanded the grounds and added smaller shrines that reflect new concerns of the community.
This place hosts a ceremony called Jusan Mairi, marking the passage into adulthood for boys and girls who turn thirteen and pray before the main altar for wisdom and clarity. Families walk up together, wearing new kimonos and offering prayers for success in school and life.
Access involves steep steps and narrow paths, so visitors should wear sturdy shoes and allow some time for the climb. Those arriving by Hankyu Railway reach the entrance within a few minutes, while the walk from JR Station takes about a quarter of an hour.
Inside the grounds stands the Denden Shrine, dedicated to protecting electricity and radio waves, regularly visited by technicians and engineers from the electronics industry. This small area was established after modern technology became part of daily life.
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