Mitaki-dera Temple | Hiroshima

Information

Landmark: Mitaki-dera Temple
City: Hiroshima
Country: Japan
Continent: Asia

Mitaki-dera Temple, Hiroshima, Japan, Asia

Mitaki-dera Temple is a Buddhist temple situated in the western part of Hiroshima City, Japan.

It is known for its three waterfalls and tranquil forest setting.

Visual Characteristics

The temple complex features several structures constructed primarily from wood, with tiled roofs. The main hall is a modest size, and smaller sub-temples and shrines are scattered throughout the grounds. The three waterfalls, known as Mitaki, descend over moss-covered rocks into clear pools. The surrounding vegetation is dense, consisting of various trees, including maples and pines, which provide significant canopy cover.

Location & Access Logistics

Mitaki-dera Temple is located approximately 4 kilometers west of Hiroshima Station. Access by car involves taking Prefectural Road 191 (Hiroshima-Miyoshi Line) and following signs for Mitaki-dera. Parking is available on-site, with a capacity for approximately 30 vehicles. Public transport options include the Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) streetcar. Take Line 2 or Line 6 to the Mitaki Station stop, which is a 10-minute walk from the temple entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Mitaki-dera Temple was founded in 809 AD by the monk Kōkai. The temple grounds were historically used as a place for Buddhist ascetic practices. The three waterfalls are a natural geological feature of the area, originating from the surrounding hills. The ecological environment is a temperate forest ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the three waterfalls, each with its own distinct flow. The main temple hall contains Buddhist statues. Walking paths wind through the forested grounds, connecting the various temple buildings and the waterfalls. Photography of the natural scenery and temple architecture is a common activity. Meditation is possible in designated quiet areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the main entrance. Shaded areas are provided by the dense tree canopy. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the temple grounds. There are no on-site food vendors, but small shops and restaurants are located near the Mitaki streetcar station.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers optimal illumination of the waterfalls and temple structures. The best months for visiting are April for cherry blossoms and November for autumn foliage, when the surrounding trees display their colors. The waterfalls are present year-round, with no specific tide requirements.

Facts & Legends

During World War II, the area around Mitaki-dera Temple was used as a burial site for victims of the atomic bombing who could not be identified or cremated. A memorial monument stands on the grounds to commemorate them. It is said that drinking water from the central waterfall is believed to bring good fortune.