20. Nishi Hongan-ji 本願寺 Temple of the Original Vow serves as the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu sect. Nishi Honganji is older than its neighbor Higashi Honganji and has more impressive architecture, particularly its intricately decorated wooden gates. The Higurashimon Gate of Dusk is elaborately and flamboyantly decorated so much so that its name suggests that it should be viewed at dusk so as to avoid damaging the eyes. It is engraved with characters from moral tales and auspicious motifs.
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