If you only visit one temple in Kyoto, make it this World Heritage behemoth. From the balcony at the eastern edge of the complex, you can view an awesome sight: a massive hall and Noh stage supported by 139 wooden pillars. This architectural marvel was built in 1633 using not a single nail, but relying instead on wooden wedges. The temple has a reputation for bestowing good fortune, with numerous ways to appeal to the gods. A natural spring has a sign that states confidently: ‘You can make any wishes here and they will all come true’. In the north of the complex, young ladies close their eyes and try to walk between a pair of stones placed 18m apart. If they make it, legend says, they’ll find true love. Just west of the Main Hall is the Tainai-meguri, a pitch-black tunnel that represents Buddha’s intestine. Feel your way down the short, twisting path and you’ll find a stone that can also grant wishes. Despite all this, some worshippers used to leap from the 13m-high stage, believing their prayers would bwered if they survived the drop.
Kyoto Shortlist
Review updated October 2009
Transport Buses 100, 206, 207.
Telephone 075 551 1234
Open 6am-6pm daily.
Admission Admission ¥300; Tainai-meguri ¥100.
Copyright © 2014 Time Out Tokyo
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