Honenin Temple, Shishigatani: Kyoto

Rustic wooden temple off the beaten track

By Masayoshi Hirose

Community writer

Translated by Takako Sakamoto

Community writer

Fallen leaves on moss-covered water basin

Sukiya style temple gate with thatched-roof

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

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

I love this photo...a small vermilion palm on deep-green moss

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

Mossy thatched roof merges into the woods

Maple leaves in 'Byakusadan-Terrace of White Sand' in front of the main gate

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

This scenery reminded me anew that this is what I visited here for!

Stepping stones leading to the temple add a nice feel to the whole place

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.

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By Masayoshi Hirose

Community writer

Following Follow

Translated by Takako Sakamoto

Community writer

Following Follow

Olga 9 years ago

The leaves on the moss are amazing! That's the way to go!

Masayoshi Hirose Photographer 9 years ago

Olga-san,Thank you very much! Green and vermilion was a vivid and very fresh!

Masayoshi Hirose Photographer 10 years ago

Cathy, Thank you look at the pictures of me always. I am also one of the favorite in Kyoto this temple.

Cathy Cawood 10 years ago

I love this temple! It is one of my favorites in Kyoto, and I went there often. However, I never visited in autumn, so thank you for your autumn photos!

4 comments in total