Jūnen-ji, Buddhist temple in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan.
Jūnen-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kyoto with multiple buildings including a main hall, Bishamon-do, and Godai-do arranged across different levels connected by stone steps. The site occupies a hillside location with structures positioned to create separate spaces for worship and daily monastic activities.
The temple was originally founded in 1431 as a priest residence and later relocated to its current hillside location in 1591. This move marked a significant change in its physical layout and function as a monastic center.
The temple serves as an active place of Buddhist practice where visitors observe monks performing daily rituals and ceremonies throughout the year. It remains an important spiritual center for local followers who come to pray and participate in seasonal festivals.
The site is easily accessible on foot from the Kawaramachi Imadegawa bus stop, which serves Kyoto City Bus routes just a short walk away. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as the terrain includes several steep stone staircases leading to different building levels.
Visitors can throw clay plates from cliffs overlooking the Kiyotaki River as part of a fortune-bringing ritual that dates back generations. This engaging practice has become a memorable part of the visit for many who enjoy participating in this hands-on tradition.
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