Honen (1133-1212) revolutionized Japanese Buddhism with senju nembutsu — exclusive recitation of "Namu Amida Butsu" to attain rebirth in the Pure Land. After mounting opposition from established sects, the 1207 Kennei Persecution sent the 75-year-old Honen to exile in Sanuki, while his disciples including [Shinran](/character/shinran) were exiled to other provinces. The persecution paradoxically spread Pure Land teachings nationwide.

Chion-in, the head temple of Jodo Buddhism where Honen spent his final years, is known for Japan's largest sanmon gate and the profound teaching of nembutsu embedded in its grand Edo-period architecture.

Honen (1133–1212) mastered Tendai Buddhism on Mt. Hiei before founding Jodo Shu in 1175. His teaching of exclusive nembutsu — that simply chanting 'Namu Amida Butsu' is enough for anyone to reach the Pure Land — liberated Buddhism from aristocratic and clerical monopoly. Despite fierce persecution, his teaching became the wellspring of Pure Land Buddhism, flowing into the traditions of disciples Shinran and Ippen.