About Daiganji Temple
Daiganji Temple is a small, historic temple founded in the 13th century. It has a history of being home to monks who repaired Itsukushima Shrine, and has supported the faith of Miyajima since the era of syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism.
The temple grounds house important Buddhist statues and a statue of Benzaiten, and it is a center of Benzaiten worship, attracting many visitors.
Main Highlights
Itsukushima Benzaiten
The Benzaiten statue enshrined in the main hall is a precious Buddhist statue, counted as one of the Three Great Benzaiten Statues of Japan. Believed to be a work from the Kamakura period, it has long been revered as the goddess of music and performing arts.
Buddhist Statues
In addition to Benzaiten, several other Buddhist statues, including Yakushi Nyorai and Senju Kannon, are enshrined on the temple grounds. All of them are of high historical value and can be viewed at length in a tranquil setting.
Points to Note When Visiting
Flow of Visiting
- Passing Through the Temple Gate: Enter the temple grounds through the small but dignified temple gate.
- Purifying at the Water Basin: Cleanse your mind and body before praying.
- Praying to Benzaiten in the Main Hall: Pray for improvement in music and performing arts.
- Visiting the Buddhist Statues on the Temple Grounds: Pray slowly in a quiet atmosphere.
Points to Note When Visiting
- Photography may be prohibited inside the main hall, so please check beforehand.
- As it is a small temple, please be mindful of praying quietly.
- Goshuin (temple stamps) are given at the main hall.
Benefits
Benzaiten at Daiganji Temple is said to offer the following benefits:
- Improvement in Performing Arts: Improvement in skills such as music and dance.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Increased luck and the arrival of happiness.
- Improved Financial Luck: Wealth and business prosperity.
- Academic Achievement: Improvement of wisdom and learning
It is particularly popular with musicians and people in the entertainment industry, and is known to be visited by professional performers.
Access
Location
Located in Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, within walking distance of Itsukushima Shrine.
Directions
- From Miyajima Pier: Approximately 10 minutes on foot
- From Itsukushima Shrine: Approximately 3 minutes on foot, along the Omotesando shopping street
- Landmark: From the exit of Itsukushima Shrine, proceed along the shopping street, and you will see the temple gate on your left.
Visiting Information
- Visiting Hours: Usually 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
- Admission Fee: Voluntary donation (whatever you feel is appropriate)
- Estimated Time Required: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Historical Background
Since its founding in the 13th century, Daiganji Temple has maintained a deep connection with Itsukushima Shrine. During the Edo period, before the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, it played an important role as the head temple of Itsukushima Shrine. Even after the separation of Shinto and Buddhism in the Meiji era, it continues to serve as a center of Buddhist faith on Miyajima Island.
