万休寺

Did the Goddess of Mercy herself weep on that tragic day? Mitaki-dera, nestled on the slopes of Mount Mitaki, has witnessed centuries of prayer and peace. Yet, it also holds a silent memory of unimaginable sorrow. Founded in 809, Mitaki-dera is a Buddhist temple dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. The name Mitaki means “three waterfalls,” referring to the cascading waters that grace its grounds. These waterfalls, a source of serenity and beauty, also hold a poignant connection to Hiroshima’s tragic past. Each year, water from these very falls is offered during the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony, a solemn reminder of the lives lost and the enduring hope for peace. Mitaki-dera offers not only spiritual solace but also historical significance. Near the entrance stands a vibrant, two-story vermilion pagoda. This pagoda wasn’t originally part of Mitaki-dera. It was moved here in 1951 from Wakayama, serving as a memorial to the victims of the atomic bombing. As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll discover countless stone statues, many covered in moss, adding to the temple’s enchanting atmosphere. Look closely for the Jizo statues, protectors of women, children, and travelers, often adorned with bright red bonnets. The main hall houses a unique wooden statue, a fierce figure warding off evil spirits. The serenity of Mitaki-dera, with its gentle waterfalls, vibrant pagoda, and silent statues, offers a space for reflection. It’s a place where the weight of history meets the enduring hope for peace, a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of compassion.