Shin-Chion-in, 滋賀県大津市にある寺院
Shin-Chion-in is a Buddhist temple in Otsu, Japan, belonging to the Jōdo-shū sect. The building features traditional Japanese architecture with curved roofs, wooden structures, and corridors stretching about 550 meters (1,800 feet) that connect various halls.
The temple was founded in 1467 and is dedicated to the teachings of Hōnen, a monk who established the Jōdo-shū sect in the 13th century. Over centuries, it has maintained its role as a place of worship and continues to be cared for by the local community.
The temple belongs to the Jōdo-shū sect, a tradition centered on devotion to Amida Buddha. Visitors today still see people coming to pray, chant teachings, and take time for personal reflection.
Visitors can wander through the temple grounds, meditate in the halls, or walk quietly through the space. The old wooden architecture and tree-covered grounds create a calm environment for exploration and reflection.
The temple's corridor floorboards are crafted so precisely that they creak and squeak when walked on, creating sounds like singing nightingales. This acoustic feature is meant to remind visitors to listen carefully to the teachings of Buddha.
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