I have to start out by saying that Mitaki-dera Temple is truly a hidden gem. I’ve lived close to Hiroshima (where it is located) for three years and had not heard of this temple until recently. If you google it, you will get an image similar to my first one, but it is so much more! A friend and I wandered through the temple grounds literally for two hours. I was completely surprised by the tranquil beauty at Mitaki-dera.
Statues
There are so many statues! There are Buddhas, Jizo, Nio guards, historical figures, and more. Some of the Buddha statues date back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333) and 88 of the Buddhas are dedicated to the Shikoku Pilgrimage (also known as the 88-temple pilgrimage).
There are also many Jizo statues. Jizo is the protector of women, children and travelers, and his statues are often seen wearing bright red caps and bibs. Many of the statues are moss covered or are tucked away among moss covered rocks.
There are even figures carved into large stones that create a wall on one side of a cascade of steps leading to the main hall of the temple.
Secluded Buildings Among Waterfalls and Nature
The name Mitaki-dera means “three waterfalls temple”. Throughout the temple grounds you hear the calming sound of the waterfalls and streams. The lush vegetation and moss covered stones add to the serenity of this beautiful temple.
Among the ten buildings tucked away in this woodland temple, there is a small, rustic teahouse that serves a limited selection of traditional Japanese foods, but I believe it has limited days and times that it is open.
Mitaki-dera is located on the slopes of Mt. Mitaki a little north of Hiroshima-shi. During the bombing of Hiroshima, the temple structures received significant damage, but were not destroyed. The two-storied pagoda was moved from Wakayama to it’s present location in 1951 to serve as a memorial to the people who lost their lives during the bombing.
I didn’t know this during my visit, but there are trails that will take you to the peak with an overlook where you have nice views of Hiroshima. From what I read, it is a short hike, but steep in some areas. Also, this temple will be stunning in Autumn and a great place to see fall leaves!
If you have not visited Mitaki-dera and you enjoy serene forest temples, I would highly recommend this one.
Happy Exploring!
Kari
Pin for Mitaki-dera.
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