When people think of Arashiyama in Kyoto, famous landmarks such as Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove often come to mind. However, nestled quietly nearby is a lesser-known temple called Hōrin-ji (法輪寺). During my recent visit, I had the chance to experience the temple’s peaceful atmosphere, with traces of snow still lingering in the air. In this article, I will introduce the unique traditions of Hōrin-ji, including Jūsan Mairi, a special coming-of-age ritual, and Denden-gu Shrine, which enshrines the guardian deity of electricity and communication. What is Hōrin-ji Temple? Located in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Hōrin-ji Temple is known for its Jūsan ...
