Mitaki-dera, Buddhist temple in Nishi-ku, Japan
Mitaki-dera sits on the slopes of Mount Mitaki, with three waterfalls flowing through its forested grounds and numerous stone statues positioned along the pathways. The layout invites visitors to explore the natural and spiritual landscape at their own pace.
The temple was established in 809 by the Buddhist monk Kukai, making it one of the region's oldest spiritual centers. In 1951, a two-story pagoda arrived from Wakayama Prefecture as a memorial to those affected by the atomic bombing.
The temple holds the position of the thirteenth stop on the Chugoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage route, where visitors come to pay respects and seek blessings from the Goddess of Mercy.
The grounds are spread across different elevations, so expect some walking, especially if you want to see all three waterfalls. Wearing comfortable shoes is helpful as the pathways can be uneven in places.
The three sacred waterfalls here collect water used in ceremonies tied to remembering those harmed by the atomic bomb. This practice shows how the site weaves together the natural landscape with remembrance.
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