Unjuji Temple

Overview

Unjuji Temple is a Shingon sect temple (Gomyo-ha branch) located in Yasugi City, Shimane Prefecture. It's also the 27th temple on the Chugoku Kannon pilgrimage route and the 32nd temple on the Hyakuhachi Kannon pilgrimage route. Established in the Heian period, it has survived several fires throughout its long history. The temple grounds feature a historically significant mountain gate, a dry landscape garden, and a bell tower, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The carvings of celestial maidens on the bell tower are particularly exquisite and worth seeing. In Buddhism, celestial maidens are often depicted as women who have descended to the human world to spread the Buddha's teachings. The celestial maidens carved at Unjuji Temple are elegantly depicted, seemingly gazing serenely into the sky. Their image is sure to soothe and comfort visitors. Many pilgrims visit as part of the "Oni and Tennyo Fuku-meguri" (Devil and Celestial Maiden Fortune Pilgrimage) which includes Kiyomizu Temple. Kiyomizu Temple is famous for Oni Daishi (the Devil Master), known for its power to ward off evil. Visiting both Unjuji and Kiyomizu Temples is said to provide protection from evil spirits and the blessings of celestial maidens, hence the name "Fuku-meguri" (Fortune Pilgrimage). Unjuji Temple offers a tranquil space where history and nature intertwine. It's a highly recommended place for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and relax.