Daishō-in Temple

Overview

Daishō-in is a temple of the Nanzen-ji branch of the Rinzai Zen school, located in the Tsubaki-chō neighborhood of Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture. It is known as the twentieth stop on the Chūgoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage, and its principal image (honzon) is a statue of Shaka Nyorai. Founded in 1656 alongside the history of the Chōshū domain, this venerable temple preserves buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties. Set in a calm corner of the old castle town of Hagi, it is an ancient temple well suited to a mature journey blending history and quiet.

Highlights

• ●Temple buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan
• ●A distinguished heritage tied to Mōri Hidenari and the Chōshū domain
• ●Devotion as the twentieth stop on the Chūgoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage
• ●The main hall enshrining Shaka Nyorai of the Rinzai Nanzen-ji branch

History

Daishō-in was founded in 1656 and is closely associated with the Mōri family as a temple linked to Mōri Hidenari, the first lord of the Chōshū domain. Belonging to the Nanzen-ji branch of the Rinzai school, it has enshrined Shaka Nyorai as its principal image. Buildings on the grounds are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, conveying the history of the domain era to the present day. For a fuller account of its history and details on visiting the halls, it is best to consult official information.

Map

34.3954, 131.3914 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Head from central Hagi to Daishō-in in Tsubaki-chō
2. 2Pass through the temple gate and view the Important Cultural Property buildings
3. 3Pay respects to the principal image, Shaka Nyorai, and enjoy the quiet grounds
4. 4Combine the visit with a walk through the castle town of Hagi

Did you know?

💡 Daishō-in is the twentieth stop on the Chūgoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage, with Shaka Nyorai as its principal image. Said to have been founded in 1656, it carries a history tied to the Mōri family as a temple connected to Mōri Hidenari, the first lord of the Chōshū domain. Its grounds preserve Important Cultural Properties that convey the depth of Hagi's history.

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