Spiritual Heritage
Temples & Shrines
After Buddhism was introduced to Japan during the fifth and sixth centuries, it was blended and harmonized with Shintoism (unique to Japan) to create a synthesis of Buddhism and Shintoism. The movement of combining the two religions in Miyajima also closely connected the shrines an temples that built up around this unique culture. Visit the shrines and temples around the island and learn more about history of Miyajima.
Itsukushima Shrine
The shrine has more than 1400 years of history, and is a registered World Heritage Site. The vermillion lacquered shrine, located at the beautiful Itsukushima, fits well with the Prussian blue sea, and the green of the virgin forest, recreating the elegance of the Heian era. Many visitors from all around the world continue to visit.
Toyokuni Shrine (Senjokaku) / Goju-no-to
Both are located in front of the entrance to Itsukushima Shrine. They were built 500 years ago.
Daiganji
Daiganji Temple or Kikyozan Hokoin belongs to the Koyosan Branch od the Shingon denomination of Buddhism. The founder of this temple is not known though it is said that the temple was reconstructed by Priest Ryokai between 1201 and 1203 in the Kamakura period.
Daisho-in
Although Daishoin is not as well known as Itsukushima Shrine, it has many features that are well worth seeing. It is located at the foot of the thickly forested Misen, and is one of the most famous temples in Miyajima. Until the separation of Buddhism and Shintoism in the Meiji period, the head priest of Itsukushima Shrine engaged in politics here.
Other Temples & Shrines
There are numerous shrines and temples, and each of them have a very interesting history. For example, Tahoto, the Ohmoto shrine, and the Kiyomori shrine.
Shrines and Temples on the Summit of Misen
Misen is located in the center of Miyajima. After Kukai (Kobodaishi) discovered it in the autumn of 806, Misen became a spiritual and holy site. There are many historical monuments in Misen because great historical figures, such as Kiyomori Taira and Hirobumi Ito shared a deep belief in it.