Shindera Dori: Temple Road

All the temples you could ever ask for in one place

Laura Welch Aug 18, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>Visiting a temple is a wonderful experience that starts at the carefully tended entranceway  </p>

<p>Some feature gardens, as crafted as any sculpture</p>

<p>Surrounded by bushes and trees, the noises of modern life fall into the background and allow you to relax in a quiet atmosphere at Zendouji</p>

<p>Stone lanterns are simple yet detailed</p>

<p>Rinkouin also has fairly large grounds, and stone lanterns</p>

<p>In the forecourt are small statues of Buddhas, each with one of the twelve animals from the Chinese zodiac</p>

<p>This statute, one of a pair, looks like it's guarding Dairinji temple</p>

<p>The color red is thought to expel demons and illness. This may be a Jizo Statue, a very common sight in Japan.</p>

<p>This stone lantern is very ornate. Dragons have a long history both in Japan and in Buddhism.</p>

<p>Myoshinin has a resident dog, who likes people and being stroked. Just don't touch his tail!</p>

<p>Running behind some of the temples is a green walkway, which is shady and peaceful</p>

<p>Koushouji has a small pagoda. Each level displays a Japanese character which stands for a different concept, such as dharma (cosmic law and order).</p>

<p>Many Buddhist temples in Japan have a large bell, called a bonsho. They have a spiritual significance and are used in ceremonies.</p>

<p>In the foreground is a large incense burner, the smoke of which is thought to be healing or purifying</p>

<p>This purification fountain is decorated with a dragon</p>

<p>Part of this temple is also a shrine, indicated by these shrine gates, called torii. Also note the small stone statue of the pagoda.</p>

The attractions of Ichibancho and its covered shopping arcades make the west side of Sendai Station the more popular. But the east side also has plenty to offer, from a museum to a whole road full of temples.

Whether you're interested in the architecture, the culture or the atmosphere, a Buddhist temple is an unmissable part of a trip to Japan. Each one is unique, and at Shindera Dori, you can see many styles and features in one area!

Laura Welch @laura.welch

One of my favourite things about Japan is the wonderful variety of food, and I love to share what I find. When I'm not eating, you might find me singing karaoke or walking around hoping to make new discoveries!