Chikurin-ji, Buddhist temple in Arisato, Japan
Chikurin-ji is a Buddhist temple set among bamboo groves with a main hall dedicated to Manjushri Bodhisattva, featuring a statue mounted on a lion. The grounds contain multiple structures arranged to serve different religious functions and accommodate visitors.
The temple was founded during the Nara period by monk Gyōki as part of his larger network of religious institutions. The founder played an important role in spreading Buddhism throughout the region and left a significant legacy.
The temple serves as a center for Buddhist practice, where visitors can observe regular ceremonies and ritual burnings of old amulets throughout the year. These activities shape daily life at the site and demonstrate how the community engages with the space.
The temple is easily accessible on foot from nearby train stations and sits in a quiet setting surrounded by bamboo groves. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and allow time for a leisurely walk through the grounds.
A reliquary containing sacred remains of the founder was discovered on the grounds centuries after his lifetime, sparking deeper devotion at the site. This discovery had lasting influence on the spiritual importance of the temple for believers.
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