Senkō-ji, Buddhist temple in Arashiyama, Japan
Senkō-ji is a Buddhist temple built on a steep hillside overlooking a river, with structures that rise across multiple levels. The buildings feature traditional wooden design with open platforms and galleries integrated into the natural contours of the site.
The temple started as a prayer site for the imperial court but was moved to its current location in 1614 by a local merchant. In 1808 it changed its Buddhist school, and later survived a major natural disaster that required significant rebuilding.
The temple displays wooden statues and maintains links to the local community's past through its physical spaces. These connections are woven into how the building itself functions and how people move through it.
The terrain is steep with stairs and paths along the riverbank, so sturdy shoes are recommended for walking around the area. It is best to arrive early, as the paths are narrow and the space can feel crowded with visitors.
The sanctuary features a distinctive construction that clings to the rock, with portions of the floor left open to reveal the river flowing beneath. This unusual design makes experiencing the temple physically tangible and creates a direct connection with the natural surroundings.
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