Kanjizai-ji, Buddhist temple in Ainan, Japan
Kanjizai-ji is a Buddhist temple located in the hills of Ainan with traditional Japanese architecture and several important statues housed in its main hall. The complex is home to Benzaiten, a protective deity recognized among the region's Seven Gods of Fortune.
The temple was founded in the early 9th century with a connection to the imperial family through its religious purpose. Over the centuries, it became an established point on a major pilgrimage route across Japan.
The temple serves as a gathering place for local community events and seasonal celebrations that reflect the spiritual life of the region. These occasions bring together people from surrounding areas to honor traditional practices.
The temple invites visitors to participate in traditional rituals connected to the twelve zodiac animals. The grounds are best explored at a relaxed pace to fully appreciate the statues and details throughout the complex.
The deity Benzaiten carries a special reputation for protecting against natural disasters, which holds particular importance in a mountainous region like this one. This characteristic sets this temple apart from many other religious sites in the area.
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