2015年11月6日金曜日 - 
Shawn: The best kept secret in Kyoto: Zenrinji Temple (Eikando)
Of all the cities in Japan, Kyoto is easily the most iconic. It
is one of the most historical cities in the world, full of all sorts of
temples, castles and wonderful sights. Famous places such as Ginkakuji or
Kinkakuji are visited by thousands of people every year and well known by
nearly all Japanese people; but have you heard of Zenrinji temple?
Right away I knew I would enjoy Zenrinji Temple more
than the other temples I had been to before due to
there being absolutely no line to get into the temple. It seems that very few
people know about it and as such it was not crowded at all. At the temple I was
treated to all sorts of wonderful sights such as a lovely Japanese garden and
some fascinating statues of the Amida
Buddah with his head turned sideways. Legend has it that
the statue came to life, turned its head, and spoke to the
priest of the temple.
The best part for me was the traditional
peaceful atmosphere. The temple is far enough away
from the road for it to be very quiet and
peaceful. Cameras are not allowed throughout much of the temple so everyone can
just focus on enjoying what is in front
of them instead of trying to take a perfect picture. I highly recommend this temple
to everyone visiting Kyoto. I had a great experience there and I hope you
do, too! There may be a few more people there in certain
seasons, though...
best kept secret：穴場
iconic：象徴的な
A.K.A. ：（also known as）別名
praising：賞賛する
due to：というのは
fascinating：魅力的な
legend has it：～という言い伝えがある
focus on：～に集中する