Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji Temple
禅林寺 · 사쿄구
Buddhist temple in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Contents
9 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji Temple1:35
Welcome to Zenrin-ji, more popularly known by its affectionate name, Eikan-dō. Nestled into the slopes of the Higashiyama hills, this temple is part of the Seizan branch of the Jodo-shu (Pure Land) Buddhist sect. …
Listen in the app2Mikaeri Amida — The Buddha Who Looks Back1:28
The spiritual centerpiece of Eikan-dō is the 'Mikaeri Amida' or 'Looking-Back Amida Buddha.' Unlike almost all other Buddhist statues in Japan that face forward with a serene, static gaze, this 12th-century statue has its head…
Listen in the app3Tahoto Pagoda — The Beacon on the Hill1:25
Perched on the hillside above the main temple complex is the Tahoto Pagoda. This two-story pagoda is an iconic part of the Eikan-dō skyline. …
Listen in the app4Hojo Pond — A Mirror of the Seasons1:18
The Hojo Pond is the centerpiece of the temple’s lower garden. This large, clear pond is fed by mountain springs and is surrounded by a 'delightful foliage' of maples and evergreens. …
Listen in the app5Garyuro — The Reclining Dragon Corridor1:18
Connecting the various halls of Eikan-dō is the 'Garyuro' or 'Reclining Dragon Corridor.' This covered wooden walkway winds up the hillside in a series of steep, zig-zagging steps. The name comes from the fact that the shape of…
Listen in the app6Shakado and the Fusuma Paintings1:12
The Shakado (Shaka Hall) is one of the main ceremonial buildings at Eikan-dō. It is famous for its collection of 'fusuma-e' or sliding door paintings. …
Listen in the app7Autumn Night Illuminations1:22
During the peak of the autumn season, Eikan-dō extends its hours for its famous 'night illuminations.' This transforms the temple from a historical site into a surreal, fiery landscape. Hundreds of floodlights are strategically…
Listen in the app8Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji Temple
9Closing1:22
As we conclude our journey through Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji, I hope you have felt the 'warmth and accessibility' that has defined this temple for over a thousand years. From the legendary Mikaeri Amida, who looks back to ensure our…
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What is Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji Temple?
Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji Temple is a place in 사쿄구 with 9 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | 사쿄구 |
|---|---|
| Type | Heritage |
| Story sections | 9 |
| Total length | 11 min 00 s in all |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 35.0145, 135.7953 |
| Last updated |
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