Otani Hombyo Temple in Kyoto

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Facts & Figures

Otani Hombyo temple in Kyoto is a mausoleum dedicated to Shinran Shonin (1173 - 1263). He was the founding father of the Jodo Shinshu sect of Japanese Buddhism. The temple complex itself is known as Hongwanji, the headquarters of Jodo Shinshu Buddhist school. Many people come here to enjoy praying to Buddha and following the lectures. The place includes also a huge cemetery (Toribeno) with over 15000 tombstones. Experience the Ultimate Japanese Hospitality at a Kyoto Ryokan.
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• Otani Hombyo Temple:
• Opening Hours (Mon-Sun): - 5:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Admission Fee - free

History

10 years after the death of Shinran Shonin (1173 - 1263) his youngest daughter Kakushinni (1224-1283), with the help of his disciples, created the mausoleum, which later became Hongwanji. She was the protector of Shinrans legacy. In the past the mausoleum had to change many times its location. In 1603, under the order of the Tokugawa Shogunate, it was moved to its current and final location also called Otani. In 1867 a huge fire destroyed parts of the temple and the repair started in 1869. The last restoration work for the Otani Hombyo temple was finalised after 3 years in 2009. All the efforts were made for the 750th Memorial of Shinran Shonin.

Sightseeing spots at the temple grounds

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Temple complex - Enjoy the large pond and bridge at the entrance. I really liked the beautiful Butsuden (Hondo, main hall), statue of Shinran Shonin and the Nitenmon Gate with its unique shape.

Festival & Events in Kyoto (dates can change without notice)

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31th)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamigamo Shrine. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri to the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which last around 2 hours.