Japan Hiroshima Higashi

Myojoin Temple

A site of heritage, featuring the Akou gishi statues and a historic ginkgo tree.

Photo of Myojoin Temple, Japan (ja:月光山大日蜜寺 明星院 by Taisyo)

Myojo-in Temple is recognized for its connection to Hiroshima’s history and Buddhist tradition. Situated in Hiroshima’s Higashi Ward, this temple embodies the cultural heritage of the region. Although historical records are not precise, Myojo-in Temple’s origins are linked to influential feudal families and events that have influenced the area’s history.

About Myojoin Temple

Myojo-in Temple, with its associated mountain name Mount Gekko, is of religious importance with ties to the Shingon Omuro sect and the veneration of the principal image, the Thousand-Armed Kannon. The temple was historically connected to Mouri Terumoto’s mother, Myojuin. It originally belonged to the Rinzai Zen tradition but was converted to the Shingon sect following the Mouri clan’s move to Choshu.

The temple gained historical prominence when Asano Tsunanaga, the fourth lord of the Hiroshima Domain, placed the memorial tablets of the domain’s founder and his wife within its grounds. The Naojin Shrine was established on the temple’s western perimeter during the tenure of the ninth lord, Asano Yoshitaka.

Of particular note are the wooden statues of the Akou gishi, or the 47 Ronin, which symbolize loyalty and survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. These statues are displayed in the main hall’s inner sanctuary. Myojo-in Temple was rebuilt after its destruction in the atomic bombing, becoming a symbol of the city’s resilience.

The temple’s ginkgo tree, a survivor of the atomic blast, stands as a natural monument. Myojo-in Temple is also an important site for pilgrims as the 62nd temple in the Hiroshima New Shikoku Pilgrimage and the 11th sacred site in the Chugoku Jizo Pilgrimage.

Visitors to Hiroshima can experience a connection to Japanese cultural heritage through Myojo-in Temple. The Akou gishi statues provide historical context, and the nearby Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine and Naojin Shrine add to the area’s cultural significance. The temple’s role in the city’s narrative of perseverance and cultural preservation is noteworthy.

Getting There the easiest way to reach Myojoin Temple

1

JR Hiroshima
 Hiroden Route 1 + 5 more

 10-20 minute walk (1.0km)
9

Hiroden Hakushima
 Hiroden Route 9

 10-20 minute walk (1.2km)
2

Enkobashi-cho
 Hiroden Route 2 + 3 more

 10-20 minute walk (1.3km)
6

Matoba-cho
 Hiroden Route 6 + 3 more

 10-20 minute walk (1.5km)

Shin-Hakushima
 Astram Line + 1 more

 20-30 minute walk (1.8km)

Around Myojoin Temple

Myojoin Temple

Buddhist Temple in Hiroshima

open 9am - 5pm
closed Irregularly

Address

明星院, 広島

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Updated 13 Mar 2024 • Report an error

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