Kongo-ji, Buddhist temple in Miki, Japan.
Kongo-ji is a Buddhist temple in Miki that spreads across several buildings and carefully designed gardens. Stone pathways connect different areas while traditional lanterns and carefully arranged rocks help structure the whole space.
The temple was founded in 1593 during the Edo period and became an important center for local religious life. A major fire in 1863 destroyed much of the complex, but a full reconstruction afterward shaped the structures visitors see today.
The temple serves as a active place of prayer where local worshippers and pilgrims gather, with Shingon sect teachings visible in how the space is organized and used. The buildings and gardens reflect spiritual beliefs that continue to guide people who visit here today.
The grounds are easily reached by bus from a nearby station and have accessible entry for visitors. Wearing comfortable shoes is helpful since you will be walking on stone paths and through the garden areas.
The grounds contain many Buddhist statues hidden throughout the gardens and easy to miss if you are not paying attention. One particularly interesting sculpture shows a pilgrim dressed in traditional clothes wearing a large sun hat.
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