⛩️ Kamegiyama Hōkōin Daiganji (Kamegiyama Hōkōin Temple)

Located on Miyajima, adjacent to the "Itsukushima Shrine," this ancient temple of the Shingon sect has an unknown construction date, but it is said to have been built by the monk Ryo-kai during the Kenin era (1201-1204). The main deity, "Itsukushima Benzaiten," is one of Japan's "Three Great Benzaiten." In addition to bestowing fortune and business prosperity, she is also a deity of traffic safety, good relationships, and skill improvement. The pond on the temple grounds is dedicated to the messenger of Benzaiten, the Itsukushima Dragon God. Among the many Buddha statues inside, four are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. One of them, the "Seated Yakushi Nyorai," is said to have been created by Kobo Daishi and is considered the oldest existing Buddha statue on Miyajima. The other three, the "Seated Shakyamuni Nyorai," the "Statue of Ananda," and the "Statue of Kashyapa," are also worth seeing. In front of the main hall, there is a statue of Bintorō, commonly known as the "Buddha to Pat." This temple is one of the must-visit energy spots when coming to Miyajima.

Adjacent to the "Itsukushima Shrine" is an ancient Shingon temple. The main deity is "Benzaiten of Itsukushima," who brings various blessings and fortunes. The temple houses many Buddhist statues, four of which are designated as important cultural properties of the nation.