Located within walking distance of Kyoto Station, Higashi Honganji Temple offers a tranquil space where you can experience the teachings of Saint Shinran. It’s not just a tourist destination, but a place beloved by many as a place to “calm the mind.” Here, we’ll summarize basic worship etiquette, its charms, and reasons to return.
10.1 Review of Worship Procedures and Etiquette
🔸Basic Worship Procedures (Note: No goshuin stamps or amulets are given.)
1.Pass through the Main Gate (Mieido Gate)
→ Bow once and enter the temple grounds. It’s polite to remove your hat.
2.If there is a chozuya (purification fountain), purify yourself (not available at Higashi Honganji).
3.Pray at the Goei-do Hall and Amida-do Hall
→ Enter quietly, join your hands in prayer, and silently chant “Namu Amida Butsu.”
4.If there is an incense burner or prayer stand, do so in order.
5.Quietly admire the majestic Buddha statues and other objects within the hall.
🔸Worship Etiquette
・Photography may be prohibited inside the hall. Photography of the exterior and gardens is permitted.
・Please remain quiet and remain calm.
・Some temples require you to remove your shoes at the entrance and place them on a designated shelf or in a designated bag.
10.2 The Meaning and Appeal of Visiting Higashi Honganji
🔸“Salvation” and “Equality” at the Heart of the Teachings
The core of Higashi Honganji’s faith is the teaching that “everyone can be saved” through Amida Buddha’s original vow. Shinran Shonin’s philosophy that equal salvation is achieved for all by chanting the nembutsu “Namu Amida Butsu,” rather than through merit or training, offers deep healing and learning for modern people.
🔸A Space Where Silence and Majesty Coexist
・The world’s largest wooden building, the Goeido, and the stately Amidado.
・The beautiful seasonal colors of Shoseien Garden.
・The “time of prayer” experienced during early morning services and memorial services.
All of these make Higashi Honganji a place worth visiting as a “place of spiritual refuge.”
10.3 Kyoto’s Relaxing Spots You’ll Want to Revisit
🔸Shosei-en Garden’s changing appearance with the seasons
From cherry blossoms in spring to autumn leaves and snowy winter scenery, you’ll discover new charms no matter how many times you visit.
🔸Items Connected to Daily Faith, Such as Prayer Beads and Sutras
While there are no talismans, prayer beads and sutras are “tools of faith” that you’ll want to pick up when you return.
🔸Deepen Your Learning by Participating in Annual Events and Sermons
Events such as the Hoonko (Hoonko) and Flower Festival have a warmth and depth that makes you want to return again and again.
✅ Conclusion
A visit to Higashi Honganji Temple is by no means a flashy experience. However, in its tranquility and consistent teachings, you can find the “peace of mind” and“power of faith” that are sorely needed in modern times.
During your trip to Kyoto, take a moment to pause, take a deep breath, and quietly join your hands. Such time will soothe your soul.