Kiyomizu-dera(2): Nio-mon: guarded by powerful devas

Climb up a steep approach to get to the temple. 

Just as you are starting to feel a little short of breath, you will see a brightly colored gate.

 This gate—Nio-mon, meaning a gate guarded by a Buddhist deity called a “deva”—is the main gate of Kiyomizu-dera.

 It is an imposing two-story structure, measuring about 10 meters from side to side. 

Because of its color, it is also called Aka-mon, meaning “red gate.” On both sides of the gate, you will see huge devas over three meters in height looking down at you. 

In Buddhist mythology, a “deva” is a guardian who prevents evil spirits from entering the temple precincts.

Let us look at the deva up close; its lively, muscular body is an impressive sight. 

Now, take a look at the expression on its face; the deva’s wide-open eyes indicate its courage and readiness to expel evil spirits. 

Thanks to the behind-the-scenes support provided by these two devas, the temple has continued to thrive for over 1,200 years.