Saijō Inari, Buddhist temple in Kita-ku, Japan
Saijō Inari is a Buddhist temple in Kita-ku within the Kibi region, featuring several prayer halls and a stone gate. The grounds spread across an expansive site with dozens of smaller shrines scattered among trees and pathways.
The temple arose in the mid-8th century under Empress Kōken and was rebuilt after destruction in the early 17th century. Its affiliation later changed from the Tendai school to Nichiren teachings after battles destroyed the original structures.
The temple bears the title "highest Inari" and ranks between the ancient imperial household and the shrine in Fushimi. Visitors today see prayer flags and incense smoke drifting through the inner courtyards, creating a meditative mood.
Ceremonies take place hourly from early morning to afternoon, with participants needing to register 15 minutes beforehand. Vehicle blessings are offered during daytime without prior booking and last around 20 minutes.
The Hachijoiwa Rock formation measures the area of eight tatami mats and offers a view toward the ruins of Bitchu Takamatsu Castle. Beside this elevation stands an 8-meter (26-foot) stone inscribed with a Buddhist formula.
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