Did a temple really earn the nickname “Cosmos Temple”? It’s no exaggeration when talking about Hannya-ji in Nara. Hannya-ji isn’t just a temple; it’s a breathtaking spectacle of color each autumn. Picture this: 150,000 cosmos flowers, in over 30 varieties, explode across the temple grounds. It’s a vibrant tapestry woven with shades of pink, white, and purple, transforming Hannya-ji into a floral paradise. But Hannya-ji’s beauty isn’t skin deep. Its roots trace back to the Asuka period (710-794), founded by the monk Ekan. The name Hannya-ji itself is linked to the “Great Hannya Sutra,” a key text in Buddhist philosophy. Emperor Shomu enshrined this sutra within a stupa on the temple grounds in 735, hoping to protect the then-capital, Nara. History whispers through every corner of Hannya-ji. The main hall, though rebuilt, echoes its original 1667 construction. Inside, sits a designated Important Cultural Asset: the statue of Manjushri Bodhisattva, riding a lion. Out front, a towering stone pagoda stands as the largest of its kind in Japan. And guarding the entrance, the two-story Romon gate, a National Treasure, recalls the Kamakura period (late 13th century). Hannya-ji even played a role in the dramatic Genpei War. In 1180, Taira no Shigehira, during his assault on Nara, inadvertently sparked a fire that consumed much of the city, including the grand Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji temples. Shigehira’s actions left a permanent mark on Hannya-ji’s story, a reminder of the temple’s resilience through tumultuous times. Today, Hannya-ji offers more than just cosmos. Visitors can discover various blooms throughout the year. But the autumn cosmos display remains a truly special event, a must-see for anyone visiting Nara. So, next autumn, when you’re exploring Nara’s historic treasures, make sure Hannya-ji is on your list. Prepare to be captivated by a symphony of color and history.
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