Ryuhon-ji, Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan
Ryuhon-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kyoto built with traditional wooden structures and gardens designed using classical Japanese landscape principles. The grounds include multiple buildings, walkways, and courtyards arranged together as a unified whole.
The temple was founded during the Kamakura period, an era when Buddhism expanded across Japan and many temples were established. It has endured through the centuries since its founding, maintaining its role in the religious landscape.
The temple functions as a working religious center where visitors can observe daily Buddhist practice and meditation in quiet spaces. Local residents and practitioners regularly use the temple for spiritual activities and seasonal ceremonies.
The temple is accessible by public transportation from central Kyoto, with signage and information available on-site to help you navigate. Wear sturdy footwear since pathways throughout the grounds can be uneven and require walking.
The temple contains dedicated spaces for studying and teaching Buddhist philosophy, setting it apart from many other temples in the area. These scholarly areas reveal how deeply the site engages with Buddhist teachings and intellectual tradition.
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