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Gianni Simone's avatar

Under a few Buddhist temples in Japan there are pitch-black tunnels that are often called “paths of darkness” or “pilgrimage tunnels.” They are meant to serve as a spiritual experience of death, rebirth, and inner awakening.

You walk through a completely dark, narrow tunnel, typically under a main hall or pagoda. Your only guide is a handrail along the wall. In complete darkness, you lose your sense of direction, space, and sight, symbolically letting go of your ego and attachments.

They mean (I found this information online):

- Symbolic Death & Rebirth

The darkness represents death or the void—a moment of complete disconnection from the material world. Emerging from the tunnel into light symbolizes spiritual rebirth or enlightenment.

- Introspection & Surrender

Without vision, you're forced to rely on inner senses. The experience evokes humility, introspection, and faith, aligning with Buddhist concepts of letting go of the self and embracing impermanence.

- Connection to deities or Bodhisattvas

Some tunnels are designed to pass beneath a statue of Kannon (the Bodhisattva of Compassion), suggesting that walking in darkness beneath her symbolizes being held in her care—even when you can’t see.

The first time I did it, I found myself thinking: what if this is a trap and there is no exit? What if I get lost and can't find my way out?

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Richard Partridge's avatar

Thank you Gianni - I've never heard of those before - fascinating - i'll do some more research - who knows what might come of it!

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Paul Wittenberger's avatar

Well-done, Richard. I have passed through dark tunnels and have felt a sort of eerie anxiety of what-ifs going through my mind.

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Richard Partridge's avatar

Thank you Paul - this usually comes on for me when I'm in a tunnel under a river - there are a few in London !

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Paul Wittenberger's avatar

I can understand that scenario, Richard!

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