Horen-ji, Buddhist temple in Shinagawa-ku, Japan.
Horen-ji is a Buddhist temple in Shinagawa-ku featuring wooden structures and traditional roof designs arranged around a central courtyard. The grounds follow established geomantic principles of Buddhist architecture, creating a layered arrangement of sacred spaces.
This temple developed during a period when shrines and temples across Japan underwent significant transformations. From the late Edo period onward, the site experienced multiple phases of renovation and change under different political influences.
Guardian statues stand at the temple entrance, fulfilling their traditional role of protecting the sacred spaces within. Visitors notice these watchful figures as they pass through, reflecting how the community understands spiritual boundaries.
The grounds welcome visitors who wish to participate in meditation sessions or observe morning chanting and evening prayer ceremonies. It helps to check in advance when these gatherings take place, as schedules can vary seasonally.
The grounds include a small Shinto shrine, demonstrating how Buddhist and Shinto practices coexist in one place. This reflects a long Japanese tradition where both faiths share sacred ground.
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