Otani Sobyo is the mausoleum of Shinran Shonin, founder of the Jodo Shinshu Otani-ha (Higashi Honganji), put in its present form in 1694 and affectionately known as "Higashi Otani." Located south of Maruyama Park, the precincts — also famous for cherry blossoms — are conveniently close to Yasaka Shrine. The cemetery behind the main hall commands a view over Kyoto, and the scenery at dusk is partic…

Higashi Otani Sobyo is the mausoleum of Shinran Shonin (1173–1262), the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. Shinran passed away in Kyoto in 1262, and his remains are said to have been interred in the Toribeno area of the eastern hills. In 1272, his daughter Kakushinni had the remains reinterred and er…