Jissō-ji, Buddhist temple in Nishio, Japan
Jissō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Nishio featuring multiple buildings arranged within a structured complex. The main hall displays traditional wooden architecture with a tile roof, while additional structures like the Shichimen-do and Soshi-do showcase the full range of temple design and religious function.
Founded in 1145 by retired Emperor Toba, the temple originally followed the Tendai school of Buddhism. Destroyed in 1568, it was rebuilt during the Keicho period and has retained its reconstructed form since then.
The temple serves as a gathering place for Buddhist worship and ceremonies, with the flower festival each April drawing visitors to experience traditional religious observances. These occasions reflect the enduring role of the site in local spiritual life.
The temple is best visited during daylight hours when you can fully explore the buildings and grounds with natural light. Take time to walk through the complex at a leisurely pace to appreciate the spatial layout and how each building relates to the others.
The temple houses the Issai-kyo, a complete collection of Buddhist scriptures from Tang Dynasty China that has survived wars and natural disasters. Few visitors realize they are viewing texts that traveled centuries across Asia and found sanctuary here.
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