Step Inside Chion‑in
Nine minutes of chanting, insects, and temple bells at Chion‑in temple in Kyoto — a small reminder to slow down and really listen.
On Monday afternoon, I set out with my recorder, wandering through Higashiyama in the east of Kyoto, in search of a new location to take guests on one of my sound walks. I hadn’t planned to stop in at Chion-in, one of Kyoto’s largest temples — but something drew me in.
Beyond the colossal wooden gate, up a huge flight of stone steps, the city disappeared. A low chorus of monks chanting drifted from the main hall, overlapping with the steady rhythm of autumn insects. A cool September breeze carried the sounds of temple bells, the murmur of the monks in prayer, and the creaking wooden floorboards of these ancient buildings. Whilst exploring the grounds I found myself stopping again and again, just to listen.
So, I hit record.
The result is a nine‑minute sonic postcard: a small portrait of an unexpected afternoon.
If you’re new here: these field notes are part of my ongoing Kyoto sound walks — slow, guided listening sessions I run in the city. If you’d like to join me in person, you can find details and booking here: Kyoto, in Sound.
Thank you, as always, for listening with me.
🍃 SJF
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