“Lost,” a young monk muttered, clutching a worn map. “Utterly, hopelessly lost.” He was searching for Enshōji, the temple whispered to hold a secret. Here, nestled amidst the bustling heart of Obama, Fukui Prefecture, lies Enshōji. Enshōji isn’t in Osaka. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith, a sanctuary where history and spirituality intertwine. Around the early 12th century, a magnificent statue of Dainichi Nyorai was crafted. This statue became the heart of a temple, north of the current Enshōji. Disaster struck when a flood ravaged the land, damaging the temple. In 1444, the precious Dainichi Nyorai statue was moved to its present home at Enshōji. Several buildings grace the temple grounds. The Dainichidō, rebuilt in 1759, houses the revered Dainichi Nyorai statue. Inside the Dainichidō, three statues command attention. The grand Dainichi Nyorai stands at the center. This 2.5-meter-tall statue is a true marvel, one of the largest in the Hokuriku Region. It’s said that gold foil was applied during its restoration in the 18th or 19th century, adding to its ethereal beauty. While you can’t enter the Dainichidō, you can still admire the statue from outside, feeling a sense of awe and reverence. Enshōji also boasts a tranquil Japanese garden, created in the early 17th century. This garden has seamlessly merged with the natural landscape, offering a peaceful escape. A serene pond graces the garden, home to the increasingly rare forest green tree frogs, their calls adding a delicate melody to the air. Their presence speaks to the harmony between nature and spirituality.
旧守口市立下島小学校
Shimojima Elementary School’s bell echoed one last time in March 2024. This marked the end of its 49-year history. It