Matsushima - Zuiganji Temple

Japanese temples are incredible. The one we went to today, Zuiganji Temple, was the family temple of the Date clan, built in 828. Cameras unfortunately were not allowed inside, but it was spectacular to see. All of the sliding doors were painted in gold, with murals of various animals, such as peacocks and hawks. Perhaps the most interesting aspect of it was the different levels of the floor. Parts of the floor were raised, and only the higher class people were allowed there. One room in particular was higher then any of the other areas of the temple. This room was reserved for the emperor, who only visited on one occasion.



On either side of the avenue leading up to the temple were caves cut into the rock, used by the monks as places for meditation. They were really something to see, and almost a bit eerie.