About Daisho-in Temple
There are numerous statues and buildings for you to admire and seek blessings from. As you walk through the temple premises, you will find a cave with 88 Buddhist icons. They represent the Shikoku pilgrimage temples. While walking up the flights, you will see spinning wheels inscribed with Buddhist scriptures (sutras). It is believed that turning these pages is similar to reading them. So, you don’t have to have Sanskrit or Japanese knowledge to reap the benefits.
As you reach the main ground of Daisho-in Temple, you will find a hiking trail. It takes you all the way to Mount Misen. You will finish the hike in approximately 90 minutes and get to explore more temples.
Daisho-in Temple Highlights
• Discover Japan's hidden wonder; Daishoo-in Temple is located at the Misen’s foot and holds immense significance in Buddhism.
• Explore the various religious statues and buildings at the temple including the Maniden Hall, the Kannon-do Hall, and the sand-based mandala designed by Tibetan monks.
• Begin an exciting 1.5-hour hike from the grounds of the temple and reach the Mount Misen summit where you will find more spiritual buildings.
• Participate in the Maple Light Up Festival in-between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. by paying an entrance fee of ¥1,000 and witness the glory of the temple.
• Seek blessings from the 88 Buddhist icons inside the Henjokutsu Cave as they are said to be equivalent to the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
How To Reach Daisho-in Temple
- By Train: Take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to the Miyajima-guchi Station. It will take approximately 25 minutes to reach.
- By Ferry: Board the JR Miyajima Ferry to reach Miyajima Island within 10 minutes. The temple is at a 30-minute walking distance from there.
- By Walk: The temple is at a 5-minute walking distance from the Itsukushima Shrine.
Best Time To Visit Daisho-in Temple
The Daisho-in Temple is open to tourists throughout the year.
- Best Season: Visit the temple in April as the cherry blossoms cover the surroundings during the spring season.
- Best Day in the Week: Weekdays are ideal for visiting the temple so that there is not a lot of crowd and you can explore the temple easily.
- Best Time of the Day: Visit early morning as the surroundings are pleasant and peaceful during those hours.
Daisho-in Temple Other Essential Information
- Wear sports shoes for comfort as you are going to be walking and climbing stairs inside the complex.
- Maintain decorum and follow the rules of the temple as a form of respect.
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and get a peaceful experience and a beautiful view of the surroundings.
- Bring cash if you want to buy souvenirs or make donations inside the temple.
- Check the official temple website to see if there are any upcoming festivals around your travel dates.
Explore the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, Maniden:
This hall is unique and catches the eyes of every visitor. Just like the name suggests, the place has thousands of Buddha statues which are positioned and designed uniquely. They represent various aspects and forms of Lord Buddha and provide you with a spiritually profound experience. There are iconographies and intricate decorations everywhere to create a rejuvenating scene. You can come here to understand the significance of Buddhism and meditate in a peaceful environment.
Visit the Hall of the Spiritual Flame, Reikado
Daisho-in Temple holds immense significance in Japanese culture and this is exactly what the Reikado represents. This hall of spiritual flame is located inside the premises. There is an eternal flame which has been burning for more than 1,200 years. According to folklore, this flame was lit by Kobo Daishi (founder of Shingon Buddhism). It was used to light the flame of the o-torii gate, the shrine of Itsukushima. You can perform the rituals held there and connect with the higher power for peace.
Marvel at the Niomon Gate
Niomon is the entry gate of the Daisho-in Temple. It creates a specific boundary between the sacred temple ground and the mundane human world. The gate is guarded by two fierce-looking statues (nio guardians) – Agyo and Ungyo. They act as the protectors of the teachings of Lord Buddha and scare away evil powers. The power of the premises is immense. As soon as you step through the Niomon gate, you will forgo worldly concerns and focus on spirituality.
Stroll through the Omoto Park
Daisho-in Temple is enveloped with the Omoto Park. It creates a peaceful and attractive environment for the visitors. There are seasonal flowers like azaleas and cherry blossoms in spring. You will also find traditional stone lanterns everywhere. You can relax, meditate, or spend some quality time with your partner. If it interests you, start a hiking trail from here to the top of Mount Mesin.
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