Manshuin in Kyoto is a temple complex with a number of beautiful and interesting buildings, but on a semi-island in the middle of a pond stands a small temple named Bentendo. Dedicated to Benten, the goddess of wealth, happiness, wisdom and music, the temple stands next to a very old red shrine named Tenmangu. Surprisingly, it is not unusual to see Buddhism and Shinto side by side in Japan. The buildings are accessed by passing under a stone torii, and over a pretty arched stone bridge.
Cathy Cawood @cathy.cawood
I came to Japan in 2003 to teach English. I lived in Shiga prefecture for 1 year, and it still holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Kyoto for 9 years, then moved to Machida, Tokyo in 2014 after meeting my Japanese partner. I love to take photos, and my Japan in Pictures Facebook page ha...
