Senkoji Temple, Onomichi

Senkoji Temple stands as one of seven Buddhist temples in Onomichi, perched halfway up Mount Senkoji at an altitude of 136 meters. Founded in 806 AD by Kobo Daishi, the temple was later restored by Tada Mitsunaka, establishing its enduring presence in Japan's religious landscape.

The temple's main hall houses a remarkable statue of Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon), believed to have been created by Prince Shotoku Taishi. This sacred statue remains hidden as a "secret Buddha," revealed to the public only once every 33 years, with the next opening scheduled for 2045. The distinctive vermilion-painted main hall, built in 1686, features an unusual stage structure and is known locally as the "Red Hall," famously described by author Fumiko Hayashi in her writings about the area.

Visitors can explore the temple's sacred grounds, including the legendary "Tama-no-iwa" rock beside the main hall, where ancient tales tell of a shining jewel that once illuminated the sea. Behind the main hall, Kusari Mountain serves as a site for ascetic practice, where Ishizuchi Zao Gongen is enshrined. The temple grounds offer panoramic views of Onomichi city and the Seto Inland Sea, making it a popular destination for both spiritual reflection and sightseeing.

Access to Senkoji Temple is available via the Senkoji Ropeway, a charming cable car system that operates a 3-minute journey to the mountaintop, offering scenic views of Onomichi during the ascent. Alternatively, visitors can reach the temple by taking the JR Sanyo Main Line to Onomichi Station, followed by a city bus to the Nagaeguchi stop, then a 10-minute walk to the temple. Those arriving by shinkansen at Shin-Onomichi Station can take a 10-minute taxi ride to Senkoji Park. Parking is available at the Onomichi City Hall parking lot, which accommodates 87 cars for a fee. The temple grounds are accessible year-round with no admission fee required for the main temple area.