Myofuji Temple. A name whispered with reverence by the locals. Can you feel the peace that seems to radiate from its very stones? You stand before Myofuji Temple. It’s a beacon of serenity nestled in the heart of Hiroshima. While not as widely known as some temples, its roots run deep into the city’s history. The temple’s story begins not here in Hiroshima, but in the mountains of what was once called Aki Province. It was there that a devout priest, moved by divine inspiration, established a small temple dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion. The priest named it Myohouin. This marked the humble beginning of what would become known as Myofuji Temple. As time passed and the years turned into decades, the temple under the guidance of successive priests flourished, becoming a haven for the faithful. Then fate intervened. In 1595, the feudal lord Mori Terumoto decided to move his stronghold to Hiroshima. This event changed the city’s landscape. Myohouin Temple, along with its priest, was also relocated to Hiroshima, finding a new home amidst the bustling streets. In the ensuing years, the temple underwent a significant transformation. It was renamed Myofuji Temple, signifying its newfound stature in the city. The temple continued to thrive throughout the centuries, serving as a spiritual anchor for the people of Hiroshima. Even when faced with adversity, it endured, standing as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
芸州廿日市御本陣旧跡
“A castle built on the plain?” you might ask. “Isn’t that a bit…exposed?” And indeed, the Hiroshima Gokoku Jinja, the