Daisho-in 大聖院: A Scenic Masterpiece in the Heart of Japan
Mizukake Tradition—Pouring Prayers over Stone Guardians
Daisho-in 大聖院⭐⭐, the head temple of Miyajima 宮島, is a significant spiritual site nestled within one of Japan's Three Most Scenic Spots. Just a five-minute walk from the iconic World Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine, you'll reach the Niomon Gate, marking the entrance to the temple grounds. As you ascend the long slope towards Onarimon Gate御成門, be sure to stroke the Daihannyakyo Sutra 大般若経切 tubes lining the steps; this simple act is believed to accumulate merit and usher in happiness.
Inside the temple, discover the Chokgando Hall, home to the principal image of Namikiri Fudo Myo-o. This wish-granting deity, a gift from Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is said to foster strong connections in your personal and professional life, bringing good fortune and career advancement. Elsewhere on the serene grounds, you'll find the mesmerizing 500 Rakan Statues . Each statue, depicting a disciple of Buddha, boasts a unique expression and posture, giving them an almost lifelike quality. Together, they form a powerful display of spiritual presence and artistic detail.
Your Guide to the Sacred Grounds of Daisho-in (in Japanese)
Photo Gallery
We visited on a sunny March 22, 2025, and enjoyed a serene stroll along the stairs and up the slopes. Every corner of the landscape offered amazing views, dotted with Buddha statues, making each moment truly enjoyable.
Rising majestically toward the heavens, Maniden Hall (摩尼殿) commands the skyline with its striking presence
The Eleven-Headed Kannon Stands Graceful with Maniden Hall Rising Behind
Prayer Wheels
Lining the stone steps to Maniden Hall, rows of gleaming metal Sutra Wheels—each etched with sacred Buddhist texts—invite passersby to give them a gentle spin. With every turn, it's said, the spiritual merit of reciting an entire sutra is quietly awakened.
Spinning Sutra Wheels: A Path to Maniden Hall
Henjo Cave
Step into the Henjokutsu Cave 遍照窟within Daishi-do Hall 大師堂 and embark on a unique spiritual journey. This "sand-stepping dojo" offers a condensed version of the 88 sacred sites of Shikoku. Pilgrims believe that by walking on the sand, which is sourced and buried from each of the actual sacred sites, you receive the same profound blessings as those who complete the full Shikoku pilgrimage.
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