Many visitors were stepping into Jindai-ji Temple through the thatched-roof gate

What are the highlights of Jindai-ji Temple in Chofu? Some may mention the Jindai Botanical Park, which was once the temple's territory. Others may mention the bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha housed in the Shakado Hall, which is a national treasure, or the sacredness of the statue of Amida Nyorai. Some people may mention the temple's specialty, Jindai-ji soba (buckwheat noodles).

But what attracted me the most was the small temple gate. Many famous temples have a large gate with a statue of Kongorikishi, as Senso-ji Temple has a magnificent gate called Kaminarimon and Daitoku-ji Temple in Kyoto has a gate called Kinmokaku, which is designated as an important cultural property. The gate of Jindai-ji Temple, however, is a simple gate that is a far cry from such a prestigious structure. It is not a large, blindingly large gate with weeds growing on top of the thatched roof. Looking only at the roof, one might think it was an abandoned house. But that's the beauty of it.

I personally prefer things like this that are left as they are, rather than those that are so well cared for that they are seamless. Besides, I think it fits the Buddhist term "realization of what things are by their own nature." The gate is the oldest building in Jindai-ji Temple. Although it may look like it is left as it is, it is in fact well maintained.

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