Chion-in Mieido (Founder’s Hall) — Local services in Kyoto

Came upon this place by accident and glad I did go up the steps to explore. Hard to capture in words the amazing architecture of this place. I took a lot of photos of what I could of the outside, the main building and surrounding buildings but unfortunately I couldn’t take photos inside but I did go in. If the outside was exquisitely detailed the inside is something to be beholden. The main building is the jewel box and the inside is the jewel. There were monks inside and a religious service was happening. No photos allowed to be taken inside. The inside of the temple is amazing, you can see a lot of thought went into how the moving screens the surrounded the inner chamber were placed and served a dual purpose as ceiling canopies when opened. Go an enjoy the beauty...

Miei-dō, Chion-in is an absolutely beautiful temple complex with a beautiful temple, teahouse, cemetery and home of Japan's largest temple bell.

The site is still in renovation, but most of the buildings are visible from the outside. Make sure to also visit the cemetery where you will find the grave of Lady Sen (千姫; Senhime).

For movie lovers; this is also the site where parts of the Last Samurai movie...

We stumbled upon this and wow! Amazingly beautiful. The steep climb up the stairs makes this spot far less busy than surrounding areas. It was so special. ...