Kikyozan Hokoin Daiganji Temple

Daiganji Temple, formally known as Kikyosan Hokoin Daiganji, is a Shingon Buddhist temple on Miyajima. It is said to have been named because the section of its grounds extending into the sea resembles a turtle when viewed from above. Although its original founding date is unknown, the temple is believed to have been restored by the monk Ryokai around 1201–1203.
Until the Meiji-era policy of separating Shinto and Buddhism, Daiganji functioned as an integral part of Itsukushima Shrine worship. Pilgrims would first pass through the Great Torii Gate, land on the nearby beach, purify themselves at Daiganji’s large bathhouse, change clothes, and then proceed to worship at Itsukushima Shrine. The temple also served as the construction overseer for shrine repairs and renovations. Daiganji enshrines Itsukushima Benzaiten, traditionally attributed to Kobo Daishi, and regarded as one of Japan’s Three Great Benzaiten, alongside Enoshima and Chikubushima. The temple also houses four nationally designated Important Cultural Property statues, including a seated Shaka Nyorai said to have been carved by Gyoki. Access to Daiganji Temple is via a 15-minute walk from Miyajima Pier.