Drunken American tourist damages historic temple in Kyoto
A male American tourist, who was reportedly intoxicated, caused damage to the main hall of Shoden Eigen-in temple in Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward around 6:20 AM on June 24.
The temple, a sub-temple of Kennin-ji, has historical ties to Oda Urakusai, the younger brother of the renowned samurai Oda Nobunaga.
Japan has experienced a significant increase in tourism in recent years, leading to discussions about “overtourism” and its impact on local communities and historic sites.
While most tourists visit respectfully, incidents of poor behavior have occasionally drawn attention, including a recent case that saw a tourist repeatedly kick and punch vending machines in a fit of rage inside an airport infront of bemused onlookers.
Shoden Eigen-in, with its tranquil gardens and traditional architecture, is a designated prefectural cultural property.
According to Rev. Keinin Magami, 48, the chief priest of Shoden Eigen-in, the man entered the temple grounds through a side entrance on the south side.
After wandering through the garden, he attempted to climb a wooden handrail surrounding the main hall, causing damage to its surface.
The main hall, including this handrail, was designated a prefectural cultural property in 2015. The man is also reported to have broken a wooden door.
Rev. Magami became aware of the intrusion when the man began banging on the door of the adjacent residential quarters and subsequently called the police.
Officers from the Higashiyama police station responded, but no damage was found at the residential quarters.
Later that same morning, the tourist returned to the temple to apologize to Rev. Magami, using a translation app.
He reportedly expressed deep remorse, stating, “This is the biggest mistake of my life. I am truly sorry.”
When asked for his motivation, he simply stated he “wanted to see the temple.”
The temple has not filed a formal police report regarding the incident, however Rev. Magami noted that this was the first time a tourist had trespassed in this manner.
He commented on the situation, stating, “It has come to a point where we have to be careful even in our daily lives. The negative effects of overtourism are appearing, and we hope countermeasures will be taken.”
Source: Mainichi
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