Myōō-in

Myōō-in is a Buddhist temple on the slopes of Mount Atago with two buildings designated as National Treasures: a five-story pagoda and a main hall. The grounds feature these two significant structures set among the mountainside landscape, forming the core of the temple complex.

The temple was founded in 807 by Kūkai and experienced major shifts during the Kamakura period. Its association with the Mino clan later strengthened its role and standing in the region.

The temple holds religious artworks spanning centuries, including a wooden statue of Eleven-Faced Kannon carved during the Heian era. Visitors can observe these pieces in the main structures and experience how they reflect the spiritual traditions of different periods.

The grounds are free to visit year-round from 8 AM to 5 PM and offer parking for those arriving by car. The hillside setting requires steady walking to explore, so comfortable shoes are recommended for moving around the temple area.

The five-story pagoda dates to 1348 and displays pure Japanese architectural style with wall paintings inside. This structure is among the oldest surviving pagodas of its size in Japan, preserving medieval construction techniques and artistic methods.

Location: Fukuyama

Inception: 807

Founders: Kūkai

Address: 広島県福山市草戸町1473番地

Website: http://chisan.net/myooin

GPS coordinates: 34.47870,133.34600

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:41