“Lost your prayer beads again, eh?” a monk chuckled, nudging his companion. Saimyōji Temple has seen countless such moments since 834. Built during the Heian period by the priest Sanshū, Saimyōji flourished for centuries. It served as a vital center for prayer and enlightenment, even attracting the shogun Minamoto no Yoritomo. Saimyōji Temple faced a devastating fire during the Warring States period. Oda Nobunaga, the infamous warlord, set the temple ablaze. Miraculously, the main hall, the three-story pagoda, and the Nitenmon gate survived. These structures stand today as testaments to Saimyōji’s resilience. The main hall, Ruriden, is a marvel of Kamakura-period architecture. Built without nails by skilled carpenters from the Hida region, it showcases the “frog-leg” supports and distinctive lattice patterns. The three-story pagoda is equally remarkable. Constructed entirely of Japanese cypress, it houses vibrant murals depicting the Lotus Sutra and other Buddhist imagery. Saimyōji Temple also houses precious treasures. These include a designated Important Cultural Property: the Honzon Yakushi Nyorai, a statue of the Buddha of Medicine and Healing. The serene Hōrai Tei garden provides a tranquil escape. It features stone arrangements representing the Yakushi-Buddha Triad and the Twelve Divine Generals. Look for the whimsical origami crane and tortoise islands in the Shinji-ike Pond. Saimyōji Temple, though scarred by fire and time, continues to inspire. Its enduring structures, vibrant art, and tranquil gardens offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage. As you leave Saimyōji, carry a sense of its enduring spirit with you. Remember the chuckle of the monk, the resilience of the structures, and the beauty that has captivated generations.
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