basic information

Daisho-in is one of the most important temples of Shingon Buddhism. It is located at the base of Mount Misen, on which the sect's founder, Kobo Daishi, first began the practice of Buddhism on the island of Miyajima.

Daisho-in features a variety of buildings, statues and other religious objects for visitors to admire. These include the Kannon-do Hall, the Maniden Hall, a sand mandala made by visiting monks from Tibet, a tea room and a cave filled with 88 icons representing the temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

An interesting Buddhist ritual can be performed when walking up the temple's steps. In the middle of the stairs is a row of spinning metal wheels that are inscribed with sutra (Buddhist scriptures). Turning the inscriptions as one walks up is believed to have the same effect as reading them. So, without any knowledge of Japanese, you can benefit from the blessings that the reading of sutra is believed to entail.

From Daisho-in's temple grounds, a hiking trail leads to the summit of Mount Misen, where a few more temple halls are located. The ascent takes about 1.5 hours.

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how to get there

Daisho-in Temple is a five minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine or a fifteen minute walk from the Miyajima ferry pier.

How to get to and around Miyajima

hours and fees

Hours:	8:00 to 17:00
Closed:	No closing days
Admission:	Free

news and reports

Miyajima Cherry Blossom Report March 28, 2009

travel community

Users who have been to Miyajima: 490
Users who have been to Daisho-in Temple: 243

2nd of 6 most visited sights in Miyajima.
71st of 509 most visited sights nationwide.

Rating by users:		recommended (86/100, 139 votes)
Rating by staff:		interesting
Overall Rating:		interesting

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Mijayima ferry Sunday

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hotels & ryokan

Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto 17th century sukiya style Japanese hotel built in the Edo Period. With private open air baths with view of Itsukushima Shrine torii. Benten no Yado Itsukushima Enjoy onsen baths and delicious seafood while staying in Miyajima Island. Offers the Torii gate views from some rooms.

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Hiroshima and Miyajima Tours Various tours and travel packages for Hiroshima and surroundings.

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