Miyama Daisho-in (JDT Recommends)

Tuesday, November 25, 2025 Updated

Miyajima’s Oldest Sacred Temple at the Foot of Mount Misen

Miyajima · Hiroshima

Daishoin Temple on Mount Misen

Miyajima’s oldest sacred temple complex

Daishoin Temple (also written Daisho-in) is the historic head temple of the Omuro school of Shingon Buddhism, nestled at the base of Mount Misen on Miyajima Island. Quiet, atmospheric, and richly detailed with statues, prayer wheels, and lantern-lit halls, it offers a deeply spiritual counterpoint to the busy approach to Itsukushima Shrine and some of the best views over the Seto Inland Sea.

Why Daishoin Belongs on Your Miyajima Itinerary

Approached by stone steps lined with sutra-inscribed prayer wheels, Daishoin reveals itself as a hillside maze of temple halls, maple trees, and hundreds of expressive Buddhist statues. Turning the brass wheels as you climb is said to bring the same merit as reciting the scriptures, making every step part of your practice.

Henjokutsu Cave: an atmospheric hall with icons of the 88 Shikoku pilgrimage temples illuminated by soft lantern light.
Rakan statues: rows of small Buddhas with unique faces and knit caps, lining stairways and corners of the grounds.
Seasonal beauty: cherry blossoms in spring and fiery maples in autumn frame temple roofs and stone lanterns.
Expansive views: terraces that look out toward Itsukushima Shrine, the Ō-torii Gate, and the Seto Inland Sea.

Unlike many crowded sightseeing spots, Daishoin invites you to slow down, wander at your own pace, and discover hidden details—from guardian statues to quiet side halls—around every corner.

Stone steps and prayer wheels at Daishoin Temple

Who This Temple Experience Is Perfect For

Daishoin is ideal for travelers who want to experience the spiritual heart of Miyajima beyond the famous floating torii gate.

Culture seekers interested in esoteric Shingon Buddhism and temple rituals.
Photographers drawn to maple foliage, lanterns, and hillside views.
Walkers and pilgrims combining Daishoin with the Mount Misen trails or ropeway.
Guests on Hiroshima & Miyajima day trips or overnight stays who prefer quieter, more contemplative spaces.

Miyajima temple

Mount Misen

Shingon Buddhism

Autumn foliage

Practical Information
• Location: 210 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima
• Access: about 20 minutes on foot from Miyajima Pier,
or a short walk from Itsukushima Shrine toward Mount Misen
• Opening hours: roughly 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (may vary seasonally)
• Admission: free for the temple grounds (donations welcome)
• Recommended visit time: 60–90 minutes, easy to combine with Itsukushima Shrine and the Mount Misen ropeway

View over Miyajima and the Seto Inland Sea from Daishoin Temple

Daishoin Temple is more than a stop on the way to Mount Misen—it is a serene world of statues, rituals, and mountain light that reveals a different side of Miyajima. Japan Deluxe Tours can weave Daishoin into thoughtfully paced Hiroshima & Miyajima group tours, private excursions, and custom Japan itineraries, so you can experience this sacred site with expert guidance and ample time to explore.

　

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