Kaidan-in Ordination Hall
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Kaidan-in Ordination Hall

4.3
·144 reviews·Dazaifu, Japan

A historic temple in Dazaifu, once a key ordination platform, offering serene gardens and ancient Buddhist art.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Experience ultimate peace

CrowdLow
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Kaidan-in Ordination Hall

Kaidan-in Ordination Hall

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Experience ultimate peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic temple in Dazaifu, once a key ordination platform, offering serene gardens and ancient Buddhist art.

4.3
(144 reviews)

"Quiet and unassuming and away from the crowds, this temple is rustic but is home to an unusual triad of Buddhist statues."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Embrace the Quiet

This temple is intentionally quiet and unassuming. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and don't expect bustling crowds.

📜 Self-Service Temple Seal

A temple seal is available on a desk in front of the main hall. You can collect it yourself.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Heian Period Buddhist Triad

Heian Period Buddhist Triad

Main Hall

Unusual and ancient triad of Buddhist statues, best viewed through the window lattice. Worth the effort to see.

Reddit
Zen Rock Garden

Zen Rock Garden

Garden in front of Main Hall

A meticulously maintained garden creating a tranquil and zen atmosphere. Perfect for quiet contemplation.

Reddit
Vairocana Buddha

Vairocana Buddha

Main Hall

The principal image, a large Rushana Buddha, can be admired from outside. Special arrangements can be made to learn more.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

This historic temple offers a peaceful escape, away from typical tourist crowds. Its unassuming nature means you might need to squint to see the ancient Buddhist statues, but the serene atmosphere and well-maintained gardens are well worth the visit. Contacting the chief priest in advance can unlock deeper insights into its history. Reddit

Understanding Its Historical Significance

Originally part of Kanzeonji Temple, Kaidan-in was one of Japan's three major ordination platforms, crucial for aspiring monks and nuns in the Ritsuryo period. While it declined, its historical importance as a site for receiving Buddhist ordination remains significant. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Experience ultimate peace
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Enjoy the quiet gardens
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

(Itinerary) 24 Days Japan in October / November 2023

🤫 Embrace the Quiet

This temple is intentionally quiet and unassuming. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and don't expect bustling crowds. Reddit

📜 Self-Service Temple Seal

A temple seal is available on a desk in front of the main hall. You can collect it yourself. Reddit

📞 Contact for Deeper Insight

To learn more about the Vairocana Buddha, contact the chief priest. A notice is posted in front of the main hall. Reddit

📍 Adjacent to Kanzeonji

Kaidan-in is located next to Kanzeonji Temple, but is now a separate sect. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Embrace the Quiet

This temple is intentionally quiet and unassuming. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and don't expect bustling crowds. Reddit

📜 Self-Service Temple Seal

A temple seal is available on a desk in front of the main hall. You can collect it yourself. Reddit

📞 Contact for Deeper Insight

To learn more about the Vairocana Buddha, contact the chief priest. A notice is posted in front of the main hall. Reddit

📍 Adjacent to Kanzeonji

Kaidan-in is located next to Kanzeonji Temple, but is now a separate sect. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(144 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Kaidan-in Ordination Hall for its quiet, unassuming, and zen atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from crowds. The historic Buddhist statues and well-maintained gardens are highlights, though some note the need to view statues from a distance. It's appreciated for its historical significance as one of Japan's three major ordination platforms. Reddit

"Quiet and unassuming and away from the crowds, this temple is rustic but is home to an unusual triad of Buddhist statues from the Heian Period. You have to squint through the window lattice, but worth a visit!"

aaron meldahl

"The temple used to be part of the temple next door. Gochuin is available here, but it is self service."

Yuo

"Beautiful place quiet and zen"

Mat

What People Like

Peaceful and quiet atmosphere
Historic Buddhist statues
Well-maintained Zen garden

What People Dislike

Statues viewed from afar

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kaidan-in Ordination Hall is located in Dazaifu, near Kanzeonji Temple. You can reach Dazaifu by train from Fukuoka. From Dazaifu station, it's a pleasant walk or a short taxi ride to the temple complex. Reddit

While unassuming, it's situated next to the larger Kanzeonji Temple, which can serve as a landmark. Follow signs for Kanzeonji, and Kaidan-in will be nearby. Reddit

Dazaifu is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Many attractions, including Kaidan-in and Kanzeonji, are within walking distance of each other. Reddit

While specific parking for Kaidan-in might be limited, there are usually parking areas available near Kanzeonji Temple or in the general Dazaifu area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the grounds and to view the main hall from outside is generally free. There are no specific tickets required for basic access. Reddit

The temple grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours. For specific times or to arrange a guided explanation, it's best to contact the temple directly. Reddit

Visitors can usually worship the principal image from outside the main hall. Special arrangements might be possible by contacting the chief priest in advance. Reddit

The temple seal is self-service and usually available on a desk in front of the main hall. While there's no set fee, a small donation is often appreciated. Reddit

Temples generally do not have strict closing days like museums. However, it's always wise to check for any special closures or events. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography of the grounds and exterior is generally permitted. However, photography inside the main hall, especially of the statues, may be restricted. Always look for signage. Reddit

The well-maintained garden in front of the main hall offers beautiful, tranquil shots. The exterior architecture of the hall itself is also picturesque. Reddit

Drone usage is typically prohibited at religious sites to maintain peace and respect. It's best to avoid bringing drones. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

You can see the main hall housing the Vairocana Buddha, a beautiful Zen rock garden, and the historic grounds. The triad of Buddhist statues is a key highlight, though viewed from outside. Reddit

Yes, Kaidan-in is perfect for a brief, peaceful stop. You can appreciate its serene atmosphere and key features in under an hour. Reddit

Kaidan-in was one of only three places in Japan where individuals could officially receive Buddhist ordination, a crucial step in becoming a monk or nun. Reddit

Basic facilities like restrooms might be available, but don't expect extensive visitor services. There are no shops on-site; souvenirs are usually limited to temple seals. Reddit

Dress respectfully, as it is a place of worship. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kaidan-in Ordination Hall offers a peaceful, educational stop for families. While it's not a playground, the quiet gardens provide a calm space for children to explore. The story of the ordination platform can be an interesting historical lesson, and the unusual statues, even viewed from afar, can spark curiosity. Reddit

Keep expectations realistic; it's a place for quiet reflection rather than active play. Pack snacks and water, as amenities are minimal. The proximity to Kanzeonji Temple means you can combine visits for a more comprehensive historical outing in Dazaifu. Reddit

🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers

For solo travelers or those seeking a spiritual retreat, Kaidan-in is an ideal destination. Its 'quiet and zen' atmosphere is perfect for meditation and introspection. Reddit The self-service temple seal offers a tangible memento of your visit. Reddit Consider contacting the chief priest to arrange a more in-depth understanding of the temple's history and Buddhist art. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find Kaidan-in Ordination Hall particularly fascinating due to its role as one of Japan's three original ordination platforms. Reddit Delve into its connection with Kanzeonji Temple and its significance during the Ritsuryo period. The Heian Period statues offer a glimpse into ancient Buddhist art. Reddit Researching the history of Ganjin and the establishment of ordination platforms beforehand will greatly enhance your appreciation of this site. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Ordination Platforms

Kaidan-in Ordination Hall holds a special place in Japanese Buddhist history as one of the original three major ordination platforms in the country. Alongside Todai-ji in Nara and Yakushiji in Shimotsuke, Kaidan-in provided a sanctioned site for individuals to formally receive Buddhist precepts and become monks or nuns. This was particularly vital during the Ritsuryo period when an imperial edict mandated the placement of monks and nuns in provincial temples, making travel to distant ordination sites difficult. Reddit

The establishment of these platforms was crucial for the institutionalization and spread of Buddhism in Japan. It ensured a standardized process for spiritual training and the development of a monastic community. While Kaidan-in experienced a decline with the changing political landscape, its legacy as a center for spiritual initiation and its connection to figures like Ganjin (Jianzhen) underscore its enduring importance. Reddit

Today, visitors can appreciate Kaidan-in not just for its serene beauty but also as a tangible link to this significant aspect of Japanese religious history. The very act of visiting this quiet temple offers a moment to reflect on the centuries of spiritual practice that have taken place on its grounds. Reddit

Experiencing the Serenity: Gardens and Statues

The Kaidan-in Ordination Hall is celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere, largely due to its well-maintained grounds and the spiritual artifacts it houses. The garden in front of the main hall is a prime example of a Zen rock garden, meticulously arranged to evoke peace and contemplation. Its simplicity and order invite visitors to pause and absorb the quietude. Reddit

Within the main hall, the principal image is the Vairocana Buddha, a significant figure in Mahayana Buddhism. While direct access to the interior might be limited, the opportunity to view this impressive statue from outside is a core experience. Equally compelling, though requiring a bit of effort to see, is the unusual triad of Buddhist statues from the Heian Period. Visitors often mention needing to 'squint through the window lattice' to appreciate these ancient figures, adding a sense of discovery to the visit. Reddit

Even unexpected encounters, like a raccoon dog appearing on the sidewalk, can add a unique charm to the visit, highlighting the temple's connection to nature and its peaceful, somewhat wild, surroundings. This blend of historical reverence, artistic treasures, and natural tranquility makes Kaidan-in a truly special destination. Reddit

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