Home to the headquarters of the prosperous Jodo Shin-shu (True Pure Land Sect) school of Buddhism, founded in the thirteenth century by Shinran, Nishi Honganji is the center of a vast empire of millions of followers, who believe that the chanting of "namu amida butsu" will lead to future salvation. The two halls open to visitors in the spacious compound contain wall and screen paintings by the Kano school of artists and intricate carvings. More treasures are displayed in the shoin, but reservations must be made in advance. Of particular note, the southern gate, Karamon, is beautifully constructed and carved.