Muryōji, Buddhist temple in Gamagōri, Japan
Muryoji is a Buddhist temple in Gamagori that features an ancient five-story pagoda set within a mountainous landscape with traditional architectural design. The complex spreads across the hillside terrain with interconnected structures and temple gardens.
During the Kamakura period, this temple earned recognition as the 'woman's Koyasan' by accepting female worshippers when most other temples maintained male-only policies. This openness set it apart in the religious landscape of its era.
The temple holds an eleven-faced Kannon statue designated as a National Treasure and a wooden Shaka Nyorai statue that showcase Buddhist craftsmanship. These works form the spiritual core of the site and shape how visitors experience the sacred space.
The temple is accessible daily and provides parking for both cars and buses. Comfortable footwear is recommended since the terrain is hilly, making it easier to explore the different levels and pathways.
The temple sells specialized ema votive tablets designed specifically for cancer prevention, reflecting its reputation for health-related spiritual support. These distinctive tablets show how the site has adapted to serve the needs of its visitors.
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