“Born Shinto, die Buddhist.” This old Japanese saying reveals the synchronicity of religions constituing the culture of Japan. During this three-hour walking seminar you will explore the history, traditions, and rituals of both Shintoism, the native spiritual belief of Japan, and Buddhism, which was imported from China and Central Asia.
The journey starts at the Yasaka Shrine, located in the historic Gion district. Dedicated to Susa-no-o, the god of prosperity and good health, this Shinto shrine was first built in 656 AD., and most of its buildings which remain today are from a reconstruction in 1654. The picturesque complex with numerous gates and halls presents the perfect location to outline the basic principles of Shintoism, originated from numerous tribal spiritual beliefs.
Your group then makes its way through the historic streets of Gion to one of Kyoto’s most well-known temples, the Kiyomizu-dera, with its spectacular views across the city. The introduction to Buddhism begins with a discussion of the religion’s importation into Japan and a basic understanding of how temple complexes are structured. We will also pay attention to the historic mingling of Buddhism and Shintoism in the existence of jing?-ji (mixed Shinto and Buddhist complexes).
Our time ends with a stop at the Zen Buddhist temple complex of Kennin-ji. As part of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism, it will provide a point of comparison with Kiyomizu-dera. This part of the tour focuses on the main principles of Zen Buddhism and how work and meditation are used to obtain enlightenment. Some of the buildings you may explore during your time in the complex are the Abbot's Quarters, the Dharma Hall (Hatto), a tea house built in the 16th century, and the Imperial Messenger Gate.
Minimum purchase: 2 tickets.
Incluso nel prezzo
- A small group expert-led tour exploring Shinto and Buddhism in Japan
Punto d' Incontro
- You will meet your docent in front of the Lawson's General Store located under the covered arcade across the street from the Yasaka Shrine in Gion. The store is located on the corner of Shijo-dori and Higashi-Oji-dori.
Durata
3 ore
Orari di aperture
Daily at 01:00 PM
Dimensioni Gruppo / Numero di Partecipanti
Lingue disponibili
