Daihigan-ji, Buddhist temple in Akiruno, Japan
Daihigan-ji is a Buddhist temple in Akiruno featuring a main hall, bell tower, and grand entrance gate adorned with guardian statues and intricate ceiling paintings in traditional style. The grounds contain several buildings arranged on a peaceful site that exemplifies classic Japanese temple architecture.
The temple was established in 1191 by Hirayama Sueshige under the orders of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first shogun of the Kamakura period. It underwent modifications and expansions through different eras of Japanese history.
The temple houses nationally designated important cultural property sculptures, including a wooden Amida Buddha with attending bodhisattvas that reflect ancient Buddhist artistic traditions. These carved figures stand as evidence of skilled craftsmanship from centuries past.
The temple sits about 15 minutes on foot from JR Musashi-Masuko Station and features parking for roughly 20 vehicles on site. Comfortable footwear is recommended as exploring the grounds takes time to fully appreciate the buildings and landscaping.
Historical documents record that Date Masamune, a powerful feudal lord, requested white bush clover plants from the temple gardens. This connection shows the site held importance even among regional rulers during the feudal era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
