Daichū-ji, Buddhist temple in Ōhiramachi Nishiyamada, Japan.
Daichū-ji comprises several temple buildings set among carved stone steps, a traditional cooking stove, and an ancient wisteria tree that grows without visible roots. The grounds also feature gravestones of notable priests spanning different historical periods.
Daichū-ji was established in 1489 by Koyama Naritoku as a spiritual center where priests practiced meditation and provided guidance to the surrounding community. The temple maintained this role as a center for learning and religious practice over successive centuries.
The temple preserves seven traditional horror tales told among visitors, including the story of a priest who became an ogre before discovering redemption through Buddhist practice.
Visitors can walk through the temple buildings and observe religious ceremonies when they are taking place. The stone steps and grounds are uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended for comfortable navigation.
The wisteria tree on the grounds displays an unusual feature by growing without visible roots at the spot where a Buddhist priest is said to have placed his sacred staff according to local tradition. This peculiar characteristic has made the tree a focal point of local spiritual beliefs.
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