Overview
Bandai-ji is a temple of the Myoshin-ji branch of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism, perched on the cliffs of Cape Abuto where it juts into the Seto Inland Sea in Numakuma-cho, Fukuyama, Hiroshima Prefecture. Its Kannon Hall, popularly known as Abuto Kannon, enshrines an eleven-faced Kannon as its principal image.
Highlights
- ●Kannon Hall built on a sheer cliff face
- ●Eleven-faced Kannon as the principal image
- ●Hall designated an Important Cultural Property
- ●Sea views from the tip of Cape Abuto
History
The temple is said to have been founded in 992, and its Kannon Hall has stood above the sea for over a thousand years since. Designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, the hall has long been venerated as the 24th temple of the Setouchi 33 Kannon Pilgrimage and the 4th temple of the Bingo Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage.
Access
The temple sits along the coast of Numakuma-cho in Fukuyama, at the tip of Cape Abuto, where the Kannon Hall appears to lean out over the cliff edge. Visitors typically walk from a nearby parking area, so it is worth checking official sources for directions and visiting hours in advance.
Best season
The temple's main draw is its view over the Seto Inland Sea, which is especially striking in the clear air of autumn and winter or amid fresh spring greenery. Because of its exposed coastal location, caution is advised underfoot during rough weather.
Map
34.3657, 133.3461 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Walk the coastal path from the entrance of Cape Abuto
- 2Pay respects to the eleven-faced Kannon in the hall
- 3Take in the view of the Seto Inland Sea from the grounds
- 4Look over the pilgrimage markers and information boards nearby
Did you know?
💡 The nickname "Abuto Kannon" comes directly from Cape Abuto, the headland on which the temple stands. It is also notable for holding a place on two separate pilgrimage routes, the Setouchi 33 Kannon Pilgrimage and the Bingo Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage.
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