Mizuma-dera, Buddhist temple in Kaizuka, Japan
Mizuma-dera is a Buddhist temple in Kaizuka featuring a three-story wooden pagoda that stands as its main structure alongside other temple buildings. The complex sits near the Kibitani River in Osaka Prefecture and contains spaces for prayer and daily practice.
The temple was founded in 744 by the Buddhist priest Gyoki and suffered destruction during military conflicts in 1585. It was later restored during the Genroku period, eventually becoming the structure visitors see today.
The temple plays a role in local traditions that visitors can observe throughout the year, particularly during New Year celebrations. At these times, monks prepare rice cakes using hand-pounding methods, continuing a practice deeply rooted in the community's rhythm.
The temple is open to visitors who can explore the grounds at their own pace throughout the day. It is best to walk around leisurely to fully take in the buildings and surrounding landscape.
According to temple records, an elderly figure with white hair once presented a golden statue to priest Gyoki. The account describes how this figure then transformed into a dragon and ascended into the sky.
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