Kanteibyo Temple, Yokohama
Kanteibyo Temple, located in the heart of Yokohama's Chinatown, is a significant spiritual and cultural site. It houses the statue of Guan Gong (Guan Yu), a revered figure in Chinese mythology known for his bravery and loyalty, particularly from the historical novel "Romance of the Three Kingdoms." Guan Gong is worshipped at the temple not only as a symbol of martial prowess but also as a deity associated with prosperity in business and finance.
The temple has a history marked by resilience and reconstruction. Established in 1871, it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to natural disasters and wartime events. Despite facing destruction during the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923, air attacks in World War II, and lightning strikes in 1986, it was rebuilt each time. The current structure, completed in 2000, carries on the tradition of honoring Chinese deities and symbolizes the community's enduring spirit.
Kanteibyo Temple's architecture and design are captivating, featuring a vibrant red exterior and intricate details in line with traditional Chinese styles. Dragon statues guard the entrance, symbolizing protection and power, while the interior is adorned with lavish gold decorations, reflecting the temple's spiritual importance. At its center stands the statue of Guan Yu, drawing worshippers seeking blessings for prosperity.
Besides Guan Gong, the temple is also a place where visitors can pay homage to the Jade Emperor and other Chinese gods believed to bring good fortune. Thus, Kanteibyo Temple serves as more than just a religious site; it is a symbol of faith, cultural heritage, and community resilience in Yokohama's Chinatown, attracting both believers and curious visitors alike.
The temple has a history marked by resilience and reconstruction. Established in 1871, it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to natural disasters and wartime events. Despite facing destruction during the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923, air attacks in World War II, and lightning strikes in 1986, it was rebuilt each time. The current structure, completed in 2000, carries on the tradition of honoring Chinese deities and symbolizes the community's enduring spirit.
Kanteibyo Temple's architecture and design are captivating, featuring a vibrant red exterior and intricate details in line with traditional Chinese styles. Dragon statues guard the entrance, symbolizing protection and power, while the interior is adorned with lavish gold decorations, reflecting the temple's spiritual importance. At its center stands the statue of Guan Yu, drawing worshippers seeking blessings for prosperity.
Besides Guan Gong, the temple is also a place where visitors can pay homage to the Jade Emperor and other Chinese gods believed to bring good fortune. Thus, Kanteibyo Temple serves as more than just a religious site; it is a symbol of faith, cultural heritage, and community resilience in Yokohama's Chinatown, attracting both believers and curious visitors alike.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Yokohama. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Kanteibyo Temple on Map
Sight Name: Kanteibyo Temple
Sight Location: Yokohama, Japan (See walking tours in Yokohama)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Yokohama, Japan (See walking tours in Yokohama)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Yokohama, Japan
Create Your Own Walk in Yokohama
Creating your own self-guided walk in Yokohama is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Yokohama Introduction Walking Tour
Yokohama is the second-largest city in Japan. Located on Tokyo Bay, the city was once a small fishing port. It became the location of the first foreign trading port in Japan, which led to its rapid expansion. The port was primarily used for transporting silk through the 20th century.
With its long history as an important area for trade and commerce, some of the world's most successful... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
With its long history as an important area for trade and commerce, some of the world's most successful... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Kamakura Temples Walking Tour
The vicinity of Yokohama abounds in Buddhist temples. Some of them are listed as national heritage. The most significant of them are found in the historic town of Kamakura, renowned for its rich religious scene.
Hase-dera Temple, perched on a hillside, is famous for its beautiful gardens and the towering Kannon statue, representing the goddess of mercy. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.7 Km or 2.9 Miles
Hase-dera Temple, perched on a hillside, is famous for its beautiful gardens and the towering Kannon statue, representing the goddess of mercy. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.7 Km or 2.9 Miles