Daisho-in Temple Miyajima
A serene Buddhist temple complex on Miyajima Island, known for its countless Buddha statues, prayer wheels, and peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Daisho-in Temple Miyajima
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Buddhist temple complex on Miyajima Island, known for its countless Buddha statues, prayer wheels, and peaceful atmosphere.
"One of my favorite temples I’ve visited in Japan. There’s so many layers and angles to enjoy."
Free Entrance & Bells
Enjoy the temple's beauty and ring the bell for free! A welcome surprise compared to other sites. :bell:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and walking involved. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the complex. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thousand Buddha Statues
Various halls
Discover countless small Buddha statues, each unique and offering a glimpse into devotion. A truly captivating sight!
The Bell of Daisho-in
Near the entrance
Ring the large, resonant bell for good fortune. A moment of peace and tradition before exploring further.
Mystical Foggy Views
Various viewpoints
Catch the temple shrouded in mist for an ethereal, unforgettable photographic moment.
Prayer Wheels
Along pathways
Spin the colorful prayer wheels for blessings and a moment of quiet reflection amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Embrace the Spiritual Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entrance & Bells
Enjoy the temple's beauty and ring the bell for free! A welcome surprise compared to other sites. :bell:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and walking involved. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the complex. :athletic_shoe:
Mindful Exploration
Be respectful of worshippers. Keep noise down and focus on the spiritual experience. :pray:
Capture the Magic
Look for unique angles and the mystical fog for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entrance & Bells
Enjoy the temple's beauty and ring the bell for free! A welcome surprise compared to other sites. :bell:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and walking involved. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the complex. :athletic_shoe:
Mindful Exploration
Be respectful of worshippers. Keep noise down and focus on the spiritual experience. :pray:
Capture the Magic
Look for unique angles and the mystical fog for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Other Sights
Visit after the Itsukushima Shrine for a less crowded, equally beautiful experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Daisho-in Temple for its serene atmosphere, intricate statues, and rich cultural experience. Many highlight the free admission and the peaceful ambiance as major draws, offering a welcome respite from more crowded tourist spots. While the temple's hillside location involves many stairs, the spiritual depth and unique beauty make it a highly recommended and meaningful visit.
"I honestly loved this place! The temples are absolutely stunning—peaceful, beautifully preserved, and full of history. There’s such a rich sense of culture everywhere you look, from the intricate statues to the sacred rituals happening quietly in the background. It’s a spiritual and serene experience that really stays with you. Definitely one of the most meaningful stops on my trip to Japan!"
SJMG15 S
"I must confess, this was one of my favorite place to visit. It offers a lot and it is free entrance. Let’s start:
1. The entrance start with some rocky stairs surrounded by a very beautiful nature. Every step allows you to see like small shrine, some small statues where the people left coins and the main entrance of the temple.
2. Just before the main entrance, you can ring a bell (for free, we did the same in Kyoto and we paid like ¥200/$1.40 aprox)
3. The entrance, before going into the stairs, were protected by 2 statues that are pretty nice.
4. Inside you will see like shrines or temple (sorry my ignorance, do your homework to avoid this type of confusions) mixed by a lot of nature.
5. My fav vid from today is one that the temple is surrounded by a fog, it is not always on, you will have to wait for the correct moment.
Because I do not know how to express with the corrects words what I witness, I will give you my pics and vids
Disclosure: Every time I read that photos and vids were not allowed I obeyed, DO the same. There are some people who believe they are geniuses because the got the vid, they are not…"
Hilario Itriago
"A beautiful and peaceful temple complex with a serene atmosphere.
The site features intricate statues, colorful prayer wheels, and well maintained pathways leading up the hillside.
It offers a quiet retreat from the more crowded areas nearby. The historical significance and spiritual ambiance make it a worthwhile visit.
A great place to explore, reflect, and enjoy the surrounding nature."
Ryan GLOBETROTTER
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Miyajima Port, it's about a 20-minute walk to Daisho-in Temple. Follow the main path towards Itsukushima Shrine, then turn left before the shrine. The temple is nestled at the base of Mount Misen. +1
While there are local buses on Miyajima Island, walking is generally the most convenient way to reach Daisho-in Temple from the port, as it's a pleasant stroll.
Yes, absolutely! Daisho-in Temple is a separate attraction and is unaffected by the Torii gate's renovation. It offers a unique and peaceful experience.
Many visitors recommend staying overnight on Miyajima Island to fully explore its attractions, including Daisho-in Temple, at a relaxed pace.
Daisho-in Temple is well-signposted and located at the foot of Mount Misen, making it relatively easy to find once you're on the island. It's a short walk from the main tourist areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Daisho-in Temple offers free admission, making it an accessible and valuable part of your Miyajima visit.
Daisho-in Temple is generally open from early morning until late afternoon, typically around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's advisable to check for any seasonal variations.
Yes, you can ring the large bell near the entrance for free, which is a popular tradition for visitors seeking good fortune.
While photography is generally allowed, it's important to be mindful of sacred areas and active worship. Always observe signage and be respectful.
No advance booking is required as Daisho-in Temple has free admission and is open to all visitors during its operating hours.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the numerous small Buddha statues, the prayer wheels, and the unique architectural details. The temple's hillside location also offers scenic views.
Yes, the temple can be incredibly atmospheric when shrouded in fog, creating a mystical and unique photographic opportunity.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the temple's serene beauty.
Drone usage is generally not permitted at religious sites like Daisho-in Temple to ensure the peace and safety of visitors and the sanctity of the location.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide shots and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the many statues.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can spend anywhere from 1 to 3 hours exploring Daisho-in Temple, depending on how deeply you wish to engage with its many halls and statues.
The temple complex is built on a hillside, so expect numerous stone steps and uneven paths. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Yes, Daisho-in is known for its vast collection of small Buddha statues, the prayer wheels, and the unique 'Senju Kannon' hall.
Due to the numerous stairs and uneven terrain, Daisho-in Temple may be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. Assess your comfort level before visiting.
Founded in 806 CE, Daisho-in is a significant Buddhist temple with a long history, offering a peaceful and spiritual environment for reflection and prayer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the temple has many stairs, it's manageable for families with children who can walk independently. The natural surroundings and the sense of discovery can keep younger visitors entertained. Consider it a more tranquil alternative to the bustling crowds often found at other Miyajima attractions. Pack snacks and water, and make it a memorable part of your island adventure.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
This temple is a true sanctuary, offering a deep dive into Japanese Buddhism and culture. Engage with the prayer wheels, observe any quiet rituals, and simply soak in the spiritual energy. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Experiment with different angles to capture the prayer wheels in motion or the grandeur of the main halls. The golden hour light in the late afternoon can cast a beautiful glow on the temple grounds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Heart of Miyajima
What sets Daisho-in apart is its incredible diversity of halls and statues. You'll find everything from the iconic Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon) to countless small, individual Buddha statues, each with its own unique expression. The temple also features numerous prayer wheels that visitors can spin for blessings, adding an interactive element to the spiritual journey. The natural beauty surrounding the temple, with its lush greenery and hillside setting, further enhances the tranquil atmosphere.
Many travelers find Daisho-in to be a refreshing contrast to more crowded tourist spots. It's a place where you can truly connect with the local culture and history, observing quiet rituals and appreciating the intricate artistry. The advice to be mindful and respectful here is paramount, as it's an active place of worship.
Navigating Daisho-in's Many Paths
Key areas to look out for include the main hall, the Senju Kannon hall with its impressive statues, and the hall of 500 Rakan (disciples of Buddha), each depicted with unique expressions. Don't miss the opportunity to ring the large bell near the entrance for good luck, a simple yet meaningful ritual.
While the temple is free to enter, the experience is priceless. Take your time, wander through the different sections, and allow yourself to be absorbed by the spiritual ambiance. The temple's location at the foot of Mount Misen also means you can combine your visit with a hike or a ride on the Miyajima Ropeway if you have more time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit