Honganji hiroshima betsu-in

Honganji Hiroshima Betsu-in is a Buddhist temple in Hiroshima featuring traditional Japanese architecture with a main hall dedicated to the founder Shinran. The structure embodies Jodo-Shin Buddhist principles through its layout and design.

The original temple was founded in 1609 but its main hall was destroyed during the atomic bombing. It was rebuilt in 1964 and has maintained its spiritual importance to the city since then.

The temple serves as an active center of Jodo-Shin Buddhist practice where visitors can observe monks conducting ceremonies honoring the deceased for local families. These rituals remain an important part of spiritual life for many in the community.

The temple is located on Tera-machi Street and can be reached from Yokogawa Station with about an 8-minute walk. Visitors should be aware that the grounds may be closed at times for private ceremonies.

An old sago palm tree beside the bell tower survived the atomic explosion from a distance of about 1150 meters and was replanted during reconstruction. The tree stands today as a living testament to that period and draws many visitors interested in nature's resilience.