Temples / Shrines

A highlight of Kobe (and, in fact, Kansai as a whole) is Suma Temple. Dating back to 886, it is the main temple of the Sumadera branch of the Shingon Buddhists. The great thing about Suma Temple is the grounds, which feature many interesting statues and other highlights. There are a few things to look out for in particular. The Pagoda When you arrive at Suma Temple, the first thing you’ll notice is the attractive pagoda. The structure has three stories and is bright red, which looks striking against the greenery of the mountains, providing a backdrop to the North. Inside the Temple Before you enter the temple, head over to the temple office, you can pick up a guide to the temple (there are guides available in English) and a prayer candle to make an offering to the deities, which will grant you a wish. You should light the candle and leave it at the front of the main building. You can also purchase a fortune slip with a good luck charm inside or a netsuke. Giant Prayer Beads Outside the temple are some massive prayer beads that are worn around your neck, not around your wrist as you…