Japan? category ?

"Kadode" is a Japanese word meaning "departure". This place is known as the site where Ushiwakamaru (Minamoto no Yoshitsune) prayed for safe travels before setting out on his journey. He won many battles with his unconventional strategies and is famous as a historical hero.

Tanukidanisan-Fudoin Temple is located in the northeastern part of Kyoto City, in a place formerly known as raccoon dog valley. When I reached the entrance to the temple, I was greeted by a row of raccoon dog figurines. The main hall is built in an impressive cliff-hanging style.

Hoonin Temple was founded in 1326. The principal image is the Amoghapasa. Amoghapasa holds a lasso and is said to be able to capture and remove all suffering. I also visited the hall where Jurojin is enshrined. A deer is sitting next to him with a calm expression on its face.

Shonenji Temple was founded in 1606. The story goes that when the temple fell into ruin, a cat kept by the head priest connected with the lord and helped the temple to be restored. The pine tree in the temple grounds is said to represent a lying down cat. There were signs and charms with illustrations of cats on them.

It is said that Amitabha, along with twenty-five Bodhisattvas, comes from the Pure Land to welcome the deceased. Sokujoin Temple has preserved a group of Buddha statues that recreate this scene for nearly 1,000 years.

Tofukuji Temple is the head temple of the Tofukuji branch of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism and was founded in 1236. The Sanmon Gate is designated as a national treasure of Japan. Tofukuji Temple has three wooden bridges. During the autumn foliage season you can see some very beautiful scenery.

The main hall of Sanjusangendo was built in 1164. It was later destroyed by fire, but was rebuilt in 1266 and remains as it is today. Inside the hall, there are 1,000 Thousand-Armed Kannon (Sahasrabhuja) statues lined up. The main hall and the group of Buddhist statues are all designated as national treasures.

Higashi-Honganji is the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Otani sect. It is located very close to Kyoto Station. There are many buildings designated as important cultural properties within the temple grounds. The Goeido (Main) Hall is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world.

At Higashi Honganji Temple, services are held every morning from 7:00 AM in the Amida Hall and the Goeido Hall. No reservation is required. Anyone can attend by going to the temple at the scheduled start time. There were over a hundred worshippers, and it was a very grand event.

Zuikoji Temple was founded in 1655. The main hall has a thatched roof. The main image of the temple is a statue of Sakyamuni enshrined inside the hall. A white dragon is enshrined near the entrance to the temple grounds. It is said that washing money here will bring you good fortune.