Five College Center for East Asian Studies Study Tours Website
"Chionin is the head temple of the Jodo (Pure Land) sect of Japanese Buddhism. The Jodo sect was founded by Honen in the year 1175, and due to its relatively simple teachings, attracted large numbers of followers among the commoners and remains one of the largest Buddhist sects today.
Chionin was built in 1234, but the currently oldest buildings date from the 17th century. Among them is the Sanmon gate, Japan's largest temple gate, standing 24 meters tall. Another record breaking property on the temple grounds, Japan's largest bell weights more than several city buses combined." (Japan-guide.com)
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Helpful Links:
Sacred Destinations - Chion-in Temple
Wikipedia - Chion-in Temple