Chion-in (知恩院, Monastery of Gratitude) in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan is the headquarters of the Jōdo-shū (Pure Land Sect) founded by Hōnen (1133–1212), who proclaimed that sentient beings are reborn in Amida Buddha's Western Paradise (Pure Land) by reciting the nembutsu, Amida Buddha's name.

The original temple was built in 1234 by Hōnen's disciple, Genchi (1183–1238) in memory of his master and was named Chion-in.

While the temple was affiliated more closely in the early years with the Seizan branch of Jodo Shu, its 8th head priest, Nyoichi (1262–1321) was deeply influenced by the priest Ryōkū, a disciple of Ryōchū who was the 3rd head of the Chinzei branch of Jōdo-shū Buddhism, and disciple of Benchō.

[1] Numerous buildings in the complex were burnt down in 1633, but were entirely rebuilt by the third Tokugawa shōgun Iemitsu (1604–1651) with the palatial structures that stand today.

The colossal main gate, the Sanmon, was built in 1619 and is the largest surviving structure of its kind in Japan.

Chion-in has a large and a small guest house in the irimoya roof style called Ohojo and Kohojo that are designated Important Cultural Heritages.

This was intentionally done so that when the Tokugawa family stayed at the temple, they could detect unwanted intruders at night.

A baldacchino of fine metal work, and red, silk ropes and tassels adorn the area.

[6] They say that the sound of the nightingale bird is meant to be a reminder to listen to Buddha's teachings.

It is said to be a symbol of gratitude delivered by a white fox, promising to protect Chion-in.

Directly to the south (and abutting) is Maruyama Park, which itself connects to Yasaka Shrine and thence Gion.