明泉寺, Buddhist temple in Kobe, Japan.

Myosen-ji is a Rinzai Zen temple in the Myosenji-cho district of Nagata Ward, Kobe, also known by locals as Dainichi-ji or Dainichi-san. According to a 1705 temple record, it is one of 49 temples built in the Kinai region by the monk Gyoki, who is also credited with carving the main image. It was rebuilt at its present site in 1351 by Akamatsu Mitsunori after fire destroyed the earlier temple during the 1184 Battle of Ichi-no-Tani.

According to a 1705 temple record, the monk Gyōki founded Myōsen-ji as one of 49 temples he built in the Kinai region, and the main image is also attributed to him. In 1184, during the Battle of Ichi-no-Tani, Taira no Moritoshi camped here and the temple burned; Taira no Tomoaki, defending Ikuta Forest, died on this ground. Akamatsu Mitsunori rebuilt it at its present site in 1351.

The temple serves as a gathering place where the local community celebrates Buddhist ceremonies and observances that mark the rhythm of spiritual life in Kobe. You can witness how these practices remain woven into the everyday traditions of people in the neighborhood.

The temple is open during daylight hours and visitors can explore the grounds at their own pace. It is helpful to move quietly and respectfully, particularly in areas where prayer or meditation may be taking place.

The main image is the Jinyu Jimu Guanshiyin Bodhisattva, carved by the former head priest and completed in 2017. The figure sits on an ox's back and holds an infant; a copy of the Enmei Jikku Kannon-gyō sutra is placed inside. In the grounds stands a five-ringed stupa for Taira no Tomoaki, moved here from a mound in the bushes by Monna Pond in the northern valley.