Daigan-ji, Buddhist temple in Chuo, Japan
Daigan-ji is a Buddhist temple in Chuo featuring a central main hall that contains four Buddha statues, including a seated figure of Yakushi Nyorai created by monk Kobo Daishi. The grounds include supporting buildings and spaces arranged in traditional temple layout for worship and contemplation.
The temple emerged during Japan's period of Buddhist architectural expansion and served as a coordination center for maintaining religious structures throughout the region. This administrative role shaped its importance until the Meiji Era brought shifts in how temples operated.
The temple houses one of Japan's three principal Benzaiten figures, representing the Buddhist adaptation of the Hindu goddess Saraswati. Visitors encounter this protector deity within the prayer spaces where local practitioners still come to pay respects.
The temple welcomes visitors throughout the week, providing access to the prayer halls and main statuary areas. Plan time to walk through the grounds at a comfortable pace and explore the different sections at your own speed.
The temple displays its Itsukushima Benzaiten figure only once yearly during a special festival on June 17. This annual occasion draws visitors who specifically time their temple visit to witness this rare public display.
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