Dairenji, Buddhist temple in Kurayoshi, Japan
Dairenji is a Buddhist temple in Kurayoshi featuring a main gate that serves as a bell tower and stone lanterns lining the pathways throughout the grounds. The complex comprises multiple halls and structures arranged according to traditional Japanese temple design principles.
The temple was founded in 1421 to honor the ancestors of the Honma clan, who served as lords of Hamochi Castle. This connection to the regional aristocratic family shaped the site's early importance.
The temple houses three distinct halls dedicated to different forms of Buddhist practice: the 500 Arhats Hall, the Kannondo Hall with its hidden Kannon image, and the Hotei Hall. Each represents different devotional traditions that visitors can observe today.
The temple is reachable within around ten minutes by car from Ogi Port, with parking available on the grounds. Visitors should expect to explore the site on foot and wear comfortable walking shoes.
The temple holds a painting titled 'Amazawa Hoteison' donated by master painter Mahori Hogan Yoshitaka. This artwork demonstrates the site's long connection to regional artistic traditions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
