Hōkai-in, Buddhist temple in Kita-ku, Japan
Hōkai-in is a temple featuring traditional wooden structures, a prominent entrance gate, a bell tower, and carefully designed meditation spaces. The buildings showcase classic Japanese architecture with details typical of Buddhist temples in this region.
The temple was founded around 729 during the Tempyo period. After suffering damage during the Sengoku period, it relocated to its current location in 1581.
The temple is part of the Shingon Buddhist tradition and serves as the fifth station on the Chugoku Kannon pilgrimage route. Pilgrims following this sacred journey stop here as part of their spiritual practice.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 to 17:00 and admission is free. Parking spaces are available on-site, and bus connections from JR Okayama Station are convenient.
The temple houses a statue of Kannon carved from a single cypress tree during the mid-Heian period, designated as a National Important Cultural Property. This wooden figure is one of the most precious works held here.
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