About Daishoin Temple
Daishoin Temple is the head temple of the Omuro branch of the Shingon sect, located in Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. It is said to have been founded in 806 (Daido 1) by Kobo Daishi Kukai, and is known as the oldest temple on Miyajima Island. It once played an important role in managing Itsukushima Shrine as its head temple, and maintained a deep connection with the shrine until the Meiji-era separation of Shinto and Buddhism.
The temple grounds contain numerous buildings, including the main hall, and are particularly famous for housing over 500 Arhat statues. Its history as a place where Toyotomi Hideyoshi held tea ceremonies and as a temporary residence for Emperor Meiji are also noteworthy.
Points to Note During Your Visit
From the Niomon Gate to the Main Hall
After passing through the Niomon Gate at the entrance to the approach, you will be greeted by the 500 Arhat statues lining both sides of the stone steps. Each statue has a different expression, and finding one that resembles you is one of the pleasures of visiting. The stone steps are inscribed with individual characters of the Heart Sutra, and it is believed that chanting them while climbing will accumulate merit.
The main hall, the Kannon-do, houses the principal image, the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva. Inside the hall, you can experience sutra copying and prayer bead making (reservations required).
Must-See Halls
The Daishi-do allows you to view the “Henjo-kutsu” cave, where Kobo Daishi is said to have trained. The cave enshrines the principal images of the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and it is believed that visiting this cave grants the same blessings as completing the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
The Reihokan houses important cultural properties, including the Heike Nokyo (Heike Sutras) (separate admission fee required).
The Mani-den offers a panoramic view of Miyajima town and the Seto Inland Sea, making it a popular scenic spot.
Connection to Tibetan Buddhism
Within the temple grounds, there are Tibetan Buddhist statues and prayer wheels (mani wheels) that were presented to the 14th Dalai Lama during his visit. Turning the prayer wheel clockwise is believed to grant the same merit as reciting the scriptures contained within, and many worshippers turn it.
Benefits
Many worshippers visit Daishoin Temple seeking various benefits.
- Protection from Evil and Good Fortune: Fulfillment of wishes by the principal deity, Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva
- Academic Success: Improvement of academics by Sanki Daigongen
- Business Prosperity: Increased wealth by Daikokuten and Ebisu
- Health and Longevity: Healing from illness by Ichigan Daishi
- Matchmaking: Success in finding a good partner by Aizen Myoo
In particular, “Ichigan Daishi” is believed to grant one wish, and many worshippers pray to him. It is also said that stroking the “Nade-butsu” (stroking Buddha statue) can heal ailments in the body.
Access
From Miyajima Island
- From Itsukushima Shrine: Approximately 10 minutes on foot
- From Miyajima Pier: Approximately 20 minutes on foot
Pass through the Omotesando shopping street and take the path towards the mountain from the exit of Itsukushima Shrine. There are signs everywhere, so you are unlikely to get lost. Since there are slopes and stone steps, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Travel to Miyajima
Take a ferry from JR Miyajimaguchi Station or Hiroden Miyajimaguchi Station for approximately 10 minutes, disembarking at Miyajima Pier. Ferries operate every 15 minutes.
Visiting Information
- Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission Fee: Free for the temple grounds (Treasure Hall: 300 yen extra)
- Estimated Time Required: 30 minutes – 1 hour
- Parking: None (Vehicle access is restricted on Miyajima Island)
Due to the many stairs on the temple grounds, wheelchair access is partially restricted. We recommend contacting us in advance.
