Shōnen-ji, Buddhist temple in Sakai, Japan
Shōnen-ji is a Buddhist temple in Sakai with multiple buildings and facilities spread across a connected property. The main hall dates from the early 1900s, while a bell gate marks the entrance to the grounds.
The temple was founded centuries ago and survived two major fires that changed its appearance over time. A bell was later installed at the gate to mark the temple's long history.
The temple belongs to the Pure Land school of Buddhism and expresses this faith through its daily practices and layout. Visitors can observe how this Buddhist path shapes the way the temple functions and appears.
The grounds are easy to navigate and include several areas to explore, including a separate facility called Kishinoue Kaikan. The morning is a good time to visit when the space feels quieter and details are easier to see.
The current religious leader at the temple is an English woman who holds a senior position in its leadership. This creates an unusual space where Western and Japanese traditions come together in daily practice.
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