宝林寺, Buddhist temple in Hamamatsu, Japan
Hoko-ji temple is a large Buddhist complex spread across a wooded hillside with multiple buildings, gates, and hundreds of stone statues scattered throughout the grounds. Pathways wind between tall trees, connecting the lower entrance areas to the higher temple structures.
The site was destroyed by fire in 1608 and rebuilt just three years later under orders from Tokugawa Ieyasu, restoring its role as a local spiritual center. After World War II, it underwent further repairs following damage from wartime bombing.
The temple houses hundreds of Rakan statues depicting enlightened Buddhist disciples, with each carved figure showing different expressions and postures that seem to reflect various aspects of the spiritual path. Visitors often walk among them feeling a sense of connection to generations of Buddhist practice.
The easiest way to reach the temple is by taking bus 45 from Hamamatsu station heading toward Okuyama, with the final leg requiring a walk on foot. The walk to the entrance takes about ten minutes but crosses hilly ground, so proper footwear is important.
In one area of the temple grounds sits a stone that produces a clear ringing sound when struck, a quirk that local tradition associates with bringing prosperity to businesses. This modest detail has drawn curious visitors for generations who seek out and touch this particular stone.
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