Travelogue Ueno Park Shinobazu Pond | Benten Hall
 

Interesting...
Ueno Park Shinobazu Pond | Benten Hall
Written by Shirley T   
Friday, 22 October 2010 00:00



Floating on the water of Shinobazu Pond, Bentendo Hall is a Buddhist temple dedicated to Benzaiten or the goddess of the arts, knowledge and wisdom. Today, Benzaiten is sought after for success in examination and good fortune.
Benten Hall floats on Shinobazu Pond
Located south-west of Ueno Park, Bentendo Temple was built by a feudal lord (daimyo) named Mizunoya Katsutaka in early 17th century. At the beginning, crossing to the island to pray was a hassle and devotees had to take boat.
Biwa - symbol of Benzaiten or Goddess of Arts
Several years later in late 17th century, a stone bridge was constructed to ease commuting and thus, had
increased the popularity of this Buddhist hall.
The calm Shinobazu Pond at Ueno Park
The original structure of Bentendo lasted for almost three centuries, alas it was destroyed during the air raid in 1945. The present structure was rebuilt in 1958. If one enters into the main hall, a long vertical rope and a red lantern (chochin) are the prominent catch of your attention. Do not hesitate to look upon the ceiling. There is a golden dragon or 'Kin Ryu', the fine art work of painter Kodama Kibo.
The venue to gaze Sakura in spring!
Surrounded by nature, the temple precinct is an oasis to escape from the bustling city of Ueno. Take a stroll to explore further behind the temple, moving on to the pathway circling the Boat Pond. Benches are plenty and rest if you need to. Watch the adorable black-headed gulls resting in a bee-line by the edge of Shinobazu Pond or Pintail and ducks paddling in the water.

Getting there?
Less than 5 minutes walk from Ueno Koen exit at Ueno Station (via JR Yamanote Line, Ginza Line or Hibiya Line) or right next to Ueno Kensei Station.  

Did not find what you are looking for? Do a search...
(Type what you are looking for in the textbox below)

Related Articles
Trackback(0)
Comments (0)add comment

Write comment
smaller | bigger
 

busy
  		 

Highlights...