Myōkaku-ji

Myōkaku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Katsuura featuring a main hall, subsidiary shrines, and traditional gardens arranged according to Buddhist architectural principles. The buildings and garden areas form an integrated complex that displays the classical layout typical of temples in this tradition.

The temple was founded in 1264 during the Kamakura period and underwent multiple reconstructions throughout its history. The current buildings were completed in 1973 following wartime destruction and subsequent restoration efforts.

The temple serves the Nichiren Buddhist community as a center for religious ceremonies and daily meditation practice. Visitors can observe how the space continues to function as a meaningful spiritual hub for local practitioners.

The temple grounds are accessible for exploration, and visitors may participate in meditation sessions or attend sessions to learn about Buddhist practices. The gardens are worth visiting across different seasons, as they display changing seasonal characteristics.

A Great Cycad tree over 1,100 years old grows on the temple grounds and is linked to a local legend that gave rise to a spiritual figure. The tree remains a distinctive feature that regularly draws visitor attention.