Jodo-Shinshu Honganji-ha (Construction began ca. 1636)

Founded by Shinran Shonin (1173–1263) during the early medieval period of Japan, this is the site of the head temple and world headquarters for Jodo Shinsho, or Shin Buddhism – the most widely practiced branch of Buddhism in all of Japan.

Since receiving my Dharma name, Shaku Goho, from Reverend Kanya Okamoto at the Shin Temple in Denver in 2009, I’ve long dreamed of visiting this temple. I was thrilled to discover that it was a mere 2.5 miles from my home base here in Kyoto.

This morning, I walked for a little over an hour through narrow residential alleyways, passing by small markets, cafes, and ramen shops preparing for the upcoming lunch crowd. Most locals I encountered offered a friendly smile, with a bow, saying “Ohayō” or Good Morning.

When I crossed the canal and rounded the corner at the Motogion Nagi Shrine, I inherently felt its moving presence.

Although not a shrine, hence no Torii gate, entering these hallowed grounds truly felt like passing from the mundane into the sacred.

Here are some snaps I was able to grab.