Daishō-in, Buddhist temple at the base of Mount Misen, Miyajima Island, Japan
Daishō-in is a Buddhist temple at the base of Mount Misen on Miyajima Island, featuring multiple pavilions, halls, and hundreds of Buddhist statues. These statues are arranged along stone staircases that open onto views of the Seto Inland Sea.
The temple was founded in 1656 by Tsunahiro Mōri and administered Itsukushima Shrine until the separation of Shinto and Buddhist practices in 1868. This separation marked a fundamental shift in the temple's role within the local religious landscape.
The temple holds a sand mandala made by Tibetan monks and displays 88 statues depicting temples from the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. These elements are housed within a cave structure that brings together Buddhist traditions from different regions.
The temple is located five minutes on foot from Itsukushima Shrine and fifteen minutes from the ferry terminal. Access is free and available daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Metal wheels inscribed with sacred texts line the temple stairs, allowing visitors to receive blessings by spinning them while climbing. This interactive element connects physical ascent with spiritual practice.
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