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Adashino Nenbutsu-ji is a temple in Ukyo-kyu, Kyoto that enshrines an Amida Buddha. It was originally used as a cremation ground for the abandoned bodies of the dead. Today, around 8,000 roughly-carved stone Buddhas mark the graves in honor of their souls. The site is particularly beautiful when the shadows are heightened. Every year, a ceremony called Sento-kuyo is held, in which thousands of candles are lit throughout the grounds in honor of their departed ancestors. The main temple hall at Adashino Nenbutsi-ji was built in 1972. It houses the scale replica of the 1st-century stupa at Sanchi in central India.

Tags: travel, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, temple, Kyoto, Amida Buddha, stone Buddhas, Sento-kuyo, stupa, Sanchi