Myōsen-ji, Buddhist temple from Nichiren Shoshu tradition in Sado, Japan.
Myōsen-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Nichiren Shoshu tradition located on Sado Island. The grounds contain multiple historic buildings, including a five-story wooden pagoda with hand-carved dragon head motifs adorning each level.
The temple was founded in 1221 by Buddhist monk Nittoku. It later became closely tied to the island's history, as it housed remains of significant individuals who were exiled here.
The name reflects a Buddhist lineage, and the temple's buildings showcase the craftsmanship of past centuries. Visitors can observe the detailed carvings and ornamentation across different structures, which reveal the skills of the artisans who created them.
The temple can be visited year-round, with opening hours varying by season. It is advisable to inquire ahead of time and wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds contain multiple buildings and stairs.
The five-story pagoda was built over multiple generations and is one of the few remaining wooden pagodas of its kind in Japan. The construction methods and techniques used showcase traditional skills that have become rare in this form.
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