Higashi Hongan-ji’s original temple complex was burned down several times. Its main temple in Kyoto was last rebuilt in 1895 and is now part of one of the world’s largest wooden structures. Constructing the temple’s two main halls required hoisting and moving massive wooden beams. However, obtaining rope strong enough for the task was nearly impossible at the time. In an extraordinary act of devotion, the temple’s female followers came together to help. They cut off their long hair and braided it into thick, sturdy ropes capable of lifting the heavy beams.
