Seoul, Kyoto, & Osaka Journal. June 15th, 2026
Kōdō Gyōgan-ji, Chōhō-ji. MAP I had a day on my own, so I decided to visit two of the 33 Kannon temples which were in central Kyoto. First I went to Kōdō Gyōgan-ji Temple - the 19th stop on the pilgrimage. It was a pleasant walk through a quiet neighborhood to get there. The temple was founded by a hunter who swore off killing and became a monk. It is well known for lotus blossoms and the neighborhood cats who hang out there. I saw some of both. Main Hall Lotus Flower Kitty cat climbing over Jizo statues at Hyakutai Jizō-dō (Hundred Jizo Hall). I got back on the subway and went to the 18th stop on the pilgrimage: Chōhō-ji. This temple is better known by the name of its six-sided pavilion: Rokaku-do. In contrast to Kōdō Gyōgan-ji Temple, this one is surrounded by tall buildings and there is an adjacent Starbucks that has a big window overlooking the garden. You can sip your coffee and engage in quiet reflection at the same time. I was able to go up to ...