UNBELIEVABLE Sanjusangendo Hall (SanjuSan = 33): there are 33 space between pillars that support this 120m long wooden hall. Originally built in 1164AD, it burnt down in 1249 and rebuilt in 1266. Despite the threat of earthquakes and fires, this wooden hall, filled with 1000 statues of "kannon". Kannon is the God/Godess of Mercy, and she/he has 33 forms. The... More

I managed to make it just 45 minutes before closing and I would have hated it if I missed it completely. The statues were definitely a sight to be seen!

This place is amazing. We all know about the Terracotta Army in China but I'd never heard of this place before visiting Japan. Set in a typical Japanese temple complex is the Sahasrabhuja-arya-avalokiteśvara or Thousand Armed Kannon. This contains a statue of the main deity which is a National Treasure of Japan but also a thousand (literally a thousand) life-size... More

It's one of a few sacred temples in Kyoto that doesn't feel too "touristy". I would recommend this place for anyone.

After returning from Japan, I asked a few people what they thought of this place and a high proportion had missed it completely. I'm guessing that's because it's not part of a "walk" or "tour". It's a sight near the station - 1000 identical gold statues and surrounding a large Buddha, in a room that was 118m long. You don't... More

Sanjusangendo is Japan's longest wooden building (nearly 400 feet in length). That it was built in the 13th century is amazing enough but the one thousand, many-armed, 13th century wooden Kannons inside (Goddesses of Mercy), with a larger Kannon at the centre, are simply astounding. The figures stand side by side, several rows deep. Walking past them is a strangely... More

The only temple I have seen with thousands of buddha. Only the structure is impressive since it was preserved for many centuries!

Must see in Kyoto. Impressive. Many tourists, but flow of people well managed. Building and garden a a pleasure, even on a very rainy day.

This is a must see in Kyoto. The statues are terrific and the setting lovely.