Hosen-in Temple

Hosen-in Temple, a serene site in Kyoto, has served as a lodging for Buddhist pilgrims since the 11th century. The temple’s entrance is marked by a 700-year-old pine tree, which stands as a silent witness to its long history. Inside, visitors can observe a unique and somber feature: part of the ceiling is crafted from blood-stained wooden floorboards, remnants of Fushimi Castle, where a mass Samurai honor suicide took place in 1600. This historical detail adds a layer of solemnity and reflection to the temple’s tranquil atmosphere.