Rokudo-Chinnoji
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TEL :075-561-4129 Address :595 Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto Access :JR Kyoto Station > (city bus number 206 ) > Kiyomizu-michi bus stop > 5 minutes walk |
The border to the land of the dead
This temple was founded sometime between 782 and 805. The area where Rokudo-Chinnoji Temple now stands was a burial ground in those days. For this reason, this place is said to be on the border with the land of the dead.
The bell located within the temple grounds is called the “welcoming bell.”
The bell located within the temple grounds is called the “welcoming bell.” In Japan, it is said that our ancestors return to us in the summer. This bell is rung to summon ancestors because its sound resonates even to the afterlife.
The bell is inside the bell tower and therefore not visible, but the rope used to strike it is exposed on the outside.
The Legend of Ono no Takamura
Ono no Takamura (802-852) was an official who served Emperor Saga. Legend has it that he served as an assistant to Yama, the judge of the land of the dead.
This temple enshrines a statue of Ono no Takamura.
Further inside the temple grounds is a well that he used to pass through on his way to the land of the dead.
When special viewings are held, you can see this well up close.
