⛩️ Shinnyo-ji Temple

Standing in the middle of the mountains in Kaohsiung, the ancient temple of Shingon Buddhism is said to have been built in 781 by Wake no Kiyomaro, who contributed to the construction of Heian-kyo. From 809, Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) lived here for 14 years. The "Daishi Hall," which was renovated and rebuilt as Kūkai's residence, is designated as an Important Cultural Property. The "Daishi Hall" opens to the public in early November each year, allowing visitors to view the statue of Kōbō Daishi, which is also an Important Cultural Property. The principal image, the Yakushi Nyorai statue, is classified as a national treasure and is crafted using a technique called "sumuki-shiage," with only the lips painted in vermilion and the eyebrows and pupils painted in black ink. The temple also houses several treasures from the early Heian period to the early Kamakura period. The temple bell, one of Japan's "Three Famous Bells," is also a renowned national treasure. From the back of the grounds, the view of the Jinkun River from the Jizō Hall is spectacular. Additionally, visitors can experience "throwing earthenware," where it is said that tossing unglazed pottery, known as "doki," into the valley can dispel misfortune and disasters.

Standing in the middle of the mountains in Kaohsiung, the ancient temple of Shingon Buddhism is where Kūkai once resided. It houses several temple treasures, including the national treasure statue of Yakushi Nyorai. The breathtaking view of Jinyun Creek from the Ksitigarbha Hall is truly healing for the soul. It is also said to be the origin of the custom of "throwing earthenware" to ward off misfortune.