A drunk American tourist sparked outrage in Japan after damaging a 761-year-old temple that’s linked to Japan’s samurai history.
The Shoden Eigen-in Temple is a sub-temple of Kennin-ji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple and a location known for its ancient ties to samurai. It famously serves as the resting place for Oda Urakusai, the younger brother of warlord Oda Nobunaga, one of the most famous and powerful historical figures in Japanese history.
Because of these cultural ties to historical figures and Buddhism, Shoden Eigen-in is a popular destination for internal and international tourists. However, on June 24, a drunk American tourist entered the Shoden Eigen-in and proceeded to wander through its gardens before damaging parts of the temple.
US tourist apologizes after damaging temple
According to a report from a Japanese news outlet, the man climbed onto the main hall’s handrail and damaged the wood. He also reportedly broke a wooden door.
According to the Head priest, the man was eventually discovered when he knocked on his adjacent home. Police responded quickly, but no charges were brought against the tourist.
Later that morning, the man returned and apologized through a translation app, saying: “This is the biggest mistake of my life. I am truly sorry.”
When asked why he entered, he told temple staff he simply wanted to see the site. While the temple has not filed an official damage report, the incident has reignited concerns over overtourism in Kyoto.
“This is the first time something like this has happened,” said the head priest. “We’re reaching a point where even daily life requires caution. We’re seeing the downsides of overtourism. I hope action is taken.”
Kyoto remains a top destination for international tourists and has faced numerous issues from overcrowding, with locals prompting calls for tighter regulations around historic sites.
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