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Saturday, June 25, 2011

Cycling North Kyoto Daitokuji Temple

Daitokuji Temple自転車で大徳寺へ

Daitokuji Temple was at first a small monastery, which was started in the early part of the 14th century by the monk Shuho Mocho.

In 1325, shortly thereafter, the monastery was converted into a facility for the imperial court.

As a result, it prospered. However, like much of the entire city of Kyoto, Daitokuji was burned in 1474 during the height of the Onin War.

Its fortunes rebounded in the sixteenth century, when Daitokuji came under the support military figures, who went on a building spree. In 1582, Oda Nobunaga, one of the contributors to the temple, was buried therein.

The temple also has enjoyed close ties to Sen no Rikyu, the tea master.

Today, the complex covers more than 50 acres and is perfect for a stroll or a slow bike ride.

If on a bike, it will be a bit bumpy. Most of the ground is covered in gravel; the path is stone, much of which can be cycled if carefully.

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