Kyoto

Honenin Temple, Shishigatani: Kyoto

Rustic wooden temple off the beaten track

Takako Sakamoto Sep 14, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>Fallen leaves on moss-covered water basin</p>

<p>Sukiya style temple gate with thatched-roof</p>

<p>I was walking down the street leading to Honenin from 'Philosopher's Walk' and looked up...</p>

<p>When I looked up, the burning red of the brilliant maple leaves colored my face red, as well</p>

<p>I love this photo...a small vermilion palm on deep-green moss</p>

<p>Autumn leaves looking as though they are towering over Jizo statues in front of the main hall</p>

<p>Mossy thatched roof merges into the woods</p>

<p>Maple leaves in 'Byakusadan-Terrace of White Sand' in front of the main gate</p>

<p>Main temple gate in deep woods...it truly looks like a rustic old temple off the beaten track</p>

<p>This scenery reminded me anew that this is what I visited here for!</p>

<p>Stepping stones leading to the temple add a nice feel to the whole place</p>

I sometimes go back to my hometown Kyoto, but seldom do I walk along the Philosopher's Walk. Yet once in a while, I feel the urge to do so...of course, on weekdays when it's less crowded!

When you walk to Nanzenji Temple from Ginkakuji Temple, you'll see a sign directing the way to Honenin Temple on your left side. Looking at the mossy main gate of it makes you feel like you are finally at home.

Takako Sakamoto @takako.sakamoto

I was born in and grew up in Tokushima prefecture, and have lived in many places since then: Nishinomiya, Kyoto, Nara, Mie, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Fukuoka and Fukui. I am currently living in Yokohama City. All the places I lived, all the places I visited, I have loved dearly. The histor...