Kurama-dera
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TEL :075-741-2003 Address :1074 Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto Access :Eizan Railway Demachiyanagi Station > (train) > Kurama Station > 6 minutes walk |
Three ways to pray at Kurama-dera Temple
Kurama-dera Temple is located in the mountain north of Kyoto. This mountain has been revered as a sacred mountain since ancient times. Many people still visit this place to make wishes.
Kurama-dera Temple has three special places for praying to deities and Buddhas. It’s the plaza in front of the main hall, the temple bell that anyone can ring, and the meditation area in the mountains.
The plaza in front of the main hall, connected to the universe
In front of the main hall, a mysterious pattern resembling an expanded hexagram is carved. This is said to be the place at Kurama Temple where you can receive the most blessings.
It is said that if you stand in the center and spread both arms towards the sky, you will become one with the universe and your wishes will come true.
After you have finished your prayers, offer incense to the Buddha at the incense burner located at the entrance to the main hall.
A temple bell that anyone can ring.
At the back of the temple grounds, there are stone steps leading to the belfry. If you climb up there, you’ll find a large temple bell.
While many temples have temple bells, it’s rare to find one that anyone can freely ring. Place your offering in the offering box, put your hands together in prayer, and strike the temple bell with a heartfelt prayer.
When I actually rang this bell, the low sound resonated throughout my body, and it made me feel refreshed.
A meditation site in the mountain.
If you enter the mountain path from Kurama-dera Temple and head towards Okunoin and Kifune Shrine, you will find a space for meditation.
This is a place where you can sit on a log bench, listen to the sound of the wind and the birdsong, and quietly reflect on your own heart.
