阿彌陀寺, Buddhist temple in Aizuwakamatsu, Japan
Amida Temple is a three-story wooden structure with a characteristic spiral design located on Mount Iimori. The building reaches approximately 16.5 meters in height and features architectural elements that create its distinctive appearance.
The temple was built in 1796 by priest Ikudo and originally housed 33 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The Meiji Restoration led to the removal of these statues, fundamentally changing the temple.
The name refers to the building's resemblance to a sea snail shell, which is reflected in its separate ascending and descending paths. This design allowed worshippers to move through their prayers continuously without encountering other visitors.
The temple is accessible from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station via the Banetsu-sai Line. Since the location is on a mountain, visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain and stairs.
The structure has a double helix design that creates two separate spiral paths. This arrangement allowed visitors to complete their route without meeting other visitors, which was important during crowded periods.
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