Shōbō-ji, Buddhist temple in Higashimatsuyama, Japan
Shōbō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Higashimatsuyama that houses several buildings and sacred structures spread across its grounds. The complex includes a Kannon Hall containing 88 Buddha statues that represent temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route, along with a bell tower and Yakushi Pavilion surrounded by stone walls.
The temple was founded in 718 as a prayer site during the Yōrō period in Japanese history. Around a century later in 796, it was expanded into a larger complex under the orders of Emperor Kammu.
The temple belongs to the Chishaku branch of Shingon Buddhism and holds a central role among the 33 sacred sites of the Kanto region. Visitors experience this spiritual importance as they move through the grounds and encounter the living practice of this religious tradition.
Visitors enter through the Niō-mon gate, guarded by protective statues that mark the temple's threshold. Wearing sturdy shoes is advisable as the grounds involve walking over uneven terrain between different structures.
A copper bell cast in 1322 is housed here and holds official recognition as a prefectural cultural property. The grounds also feature an ancient Ginkgo tree that exceeds 700 years in age with a remarkably thick trunk.
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