At the foot of Mt. Zenkisan (善気山) among the Higashiyama Sanju-Roppo (東山三十六峰, 36 mountain range), Honen-In (法然院) temple is located. With its quiet and soothing atmosphere, the temple has been loved by many literary persons such as Tanizaki Junichiro (谷崎潤一郎), as well as many scientists.
After you go through Sanmon (山門, the first gate), you'll see the beautiful patches of Morizuna (盛砂, ceremonial piles of sand) called Byakusadan (白砂壇) along the path. The wave shaped Morizuna symbolizes purification by water. Visitors go in-between two Byakusadan before entering the sacred territory. The season of fresh greenery is the best season to visit.
I feel very refreshed by the cool crisp air. Syakunage (石楠花, alpine rose) flowers by the pond is also very beautiful.
Akane Kibune,
Kyoto Expert Certification 1st Grade
URL:
http://www.honen-in.jp/
Access:
10 mins. from Jyodoji, Kyoto City bus
MAP:
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