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The Buddhist temple Zōjōji is a treasure-trove of history nestled in the heart of Tokyo. Founded in 1393 by the priest Shōsō as a center of Jōdo Buddhism, during the Edo period (1603–1868), it was the family temple of the ruling Tokugawa clan. Today, visitors can tour the final resting place of several shōguns along with the temple’s impressive collection of historic artifacts. Zōjōji retains its importance for followers of the Pure Land sect, but also attracts sightseers and photographers who come to admire the contrasting scene of temple buildings and Tokyo Tower, which soars nearby.
KYOTO Choyu Otani is not what you might picture as a typical Buddhist monk.
The 69-year-old worked for much of his life as a scientist in Brazil after getting a doctorate in physics in Sao Paulo.
In his spare time, he cooks mouthwatering churrasco Brazilian barbecued meats cooked on skewers. After five years in Japan, he has gotten used to sitting in “seiza” style on his heels.
The Japanese-born Brazilian national is putting his life experiences to use in teaching Buddhism and bridging cultural divides.
He is determined to learn the teachings of the 13th-century Buddhist monk Shinran, the founder of the Jodo Shinshu sect, with other followers and promote the Buddhist sutra around the world.