chionin
is the headquarters of the Jodo Shu (Pure Land Sect) founded by Hōnen (1133–1212), who proclaimed that sentient beings are reborn in Amida Buddha's Western Paradise (Pure Land) by reciting the nembutsu, Amida Buddha's name. The vast compounds of Chion-in include the site where Hōnen settled to disseminate his teachings and the site where he died. Chionin's Huge front gate, the largest of its kind in Japan, is an incredible sight. The grounds are often full of people who pray before the images of the main hall. You may see people standing before a large brazier, holding small sticks of incense, or waving the fragrant smoke over their heads in an effort to receive inspiration and wisdom. The temple also has the largest bell in Japan on its grounds, one that reputedly weighs more than several city buses. Standing just north of Maruyama Park and Yasaka-jinja Shrine, the temple grounds are free to enter and are a natural part of any walking tour of Kyoto's Higashiyama District.
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