Tennōji Temple

Overview

Tennōji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in Higashidodocho, Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Founded with a donation from Ashikaga Yoshiakira, the second shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, it's known as one of the temples on the Onomichi Seven Buddhas pilgrimage. The three-story pagoda was originally a five-story structure but was reduced to its current height of approximately 20 meters in 1692 (Genroku 5) due to aging. Tennōji Temple boasts magnificent views overlooking the Onomichi waterway and serene temple grounds. The view from the three-story pagoda is a highlight of any visit to Onomichi. The temple also features many attractions, including the Gohyakurakan-do hall with its five hundred Arhat statues and a charming garden. Tennōji Temple can be considered a hidden gem of Onomichi. While access is a bit inconvenient, requiring a 30-minute walk from Onomichi Station, it offers a peaceful and tranquil experience. If you visit Onomichi, be sure to visit Tennōji Temple.