On our last full day in Kyouto, we decided to visit three more temple complexes before leaving for Hiroshima. The first of these was To-ji, simply meaning "East Temple." The main complex was built in 794 when the capital of Japan was moved from Nara to Kyoto (Peter insists on spelling Kyoto, "Kyouto" but I think it is easier for pronunciation to omit the 'u' and think of the 'o' as a long 'o' sound).
At the entrance to To-ji, we saw these name cards. Presumably they are patrons of the temple.
As is common, there was a small shrine with water. It's similar in concept to the holy water at a Catholic Church--the intention is purification, although Japanese religion makes nature the source of the purity rather than a blessing ritual.
Here is To-ji's claim-to-fame--the tallest pagoda in Japan. It's a really stunning sight. It was built in 826 and has burned down 4 times, mostly due to lightening strikes. The present pagoda was built in 1644.
And, of course, the pagoda is placed in a picturesque setting involving a pond and some well-shaped trees. That's a pretty cool pagoda, though.
The spire on top is what really separates this multi-tiered temple from others like it. It has a very interesting winding structure.
The detail on the tower roofs is really neat as well. It's thousands of small interlocking pieces of wood. It's probably an entertaining puzzle to fit together after each destruction by fire.
Here are the other two temples in this particular complex.
Both of these temples host an exhibit of very old and very exquisite Buddha statues. Unfortunately, picture-taking was again forbidden. Sho ga nai. (Can't be helped.) So, we bought a set of postcards. If you wish to come to Japan, Kim can show you the postcards of the statues in the temple...or you could just visit To-ji for yourself and see its wonders.