Enryakuji temple’s Bell tower

A fascinating element of the Enryakuji temple complex is the Sho-ro, the pavilion that houses the giant bell of peace (Heiwa no kane). It’s located near the main Lecture Hall (Daiko-do), just alongside of a beautiful grove of pines and red momiji. One of them stretches its branch full of red leaves towards the roof of the vermilion colored pavilion, offering me an amazingly vibrant view.

When someone hits the heavy bell with the wooden clapper, the air fills up with the metallic but warm vibration emitted by this giant piece of art, creating a peaceful and meditative atmosphere. The two elements that I truly love of Japanese temples are this sound and the fragrance of the incense: I feel them as gifts for my senses, and I’ll miss them when I’ll leave this beautiful country.