Myōkoku-ji, Buddhist temple in Sakai, Japan.
Myōkoku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Sakai featuring several traditional buildings arranged across landscaped grounds with a museum displaying temple treasures. The complex showcases architectural styles from different periods, with gardens and pathways connecting the main structures.
Founded in 1562 by Sanyo Jikkyu, the temple was heavily damaged during the 1615 Siege of Osaka and again during the 1945 air raids. Despite these destructive events, it was reconstructed and remains standing today.
The temple serves as a gathering place where visitors can observe Buddhist rituals and ceremonies that connect the community to their religious heritage. Local people continue to visit for prayer and seasonal celebrations that mark important moments in their spiritual calendar.
The temple is located just five minutes on foot from Myokokuji-mae Station on the Hankai Tramway Sakai Line, making it easy to reach. The grounds are open and accessible for visitors to walk through at their own pace.
The temple grounds contain a cycad tree over 1,000 years old that is designated as a Natural Monument of Japan, with historical records indicating it was once moved to nearby Azuchi Castle. This ancient tree remains one of the site's most notable living features.
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