Miyajima

While it may not be as famous or frequently photographed as Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-In Temple on Miyajima is just as beautiful and absolutely worthy of a visit. It’s so beautiful that when I go to Miyajima, I skip Itsukushima (and the crowds!) and head straight for Daisho-In. Unlike shrines, which are Shinto, temples in Japan are Buddhist. Daisho-In Temple is part of the Shingon sect which was founded by Kobo Daishi and is headquartered at Mt. Koya (another place worth visiting) in Wakayama Prefecture. The temple is closely linked to Mt. Misen, the sacred mountain at the center of Miyajima, and is also where, in the year 806, Kobo Daishi underwent 100 days of ascetic practice. During his time at Mt. Misen Kobo Daishi lit a fire that has been burning for 1200 years. This fire is also the fire that was used to light the Flame of Peace in the Peace Memorial Park. The large temple complex actually contains a collection of buildings that you enter via the Niomon Gate. After purifying yourself by washing your hands and mouth, you then walk up a number of stairs where, on your right, are the Dai-hannyakyo Scriptures. According to tradition, if…