Daishoin Temple (Mori graves) - Image 1
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Daishoin Temple Miyajima Mori Clan Graves

4
·178 reviews·Hagi, Japan

A serene temple on Mount Reitsubaki, famed for its quiet atmosphere and the solemn beauty of the Mori clan graveyard with 600 stone lanterns.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Unbelievably quiet

CrowdLow
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Daishoin Temple (Mori graves) - Image 1

Daishoin Temple Miyajima Mori Clan Graves

Best Time

Weekdays

Unbelievably quiet

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene temple on Mount Reitsubaki, famed for its quiet atmosphere and the solemn beauty of the Mori clan graveyard with 600 stone lanterns.

4
(178 reviews)

"It isn't the most flashy temple, but it's unbelievably quiet and the graves of the Mori clan are great."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Graveyard Access

Graveyard sections can close due to fallen trees. Inquire at the unmanned reception if specific areas are inaccessible.

💰 Modest Admission Fee

A small fee of ¥200 grants access to the temple grounds and graveyard. Worth every yen!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

600 Stone Lanterns

600 Stone Lanterns

Mori Clan Graveyard

A magnificent, solemn sight of over 600 lanterns illuminating the graves of the Mori clan.

Mori Clan Graves

Mori Clan Graves

Mori Clan Graveyard

The final resting place of the influential Mori clan, offering a glimpse into historical lineage.

Peaceful Temple Grounds

Peaceful Temple Grounds

Main Temple Area

Experience profound tranquility amidst ancient structures and a beautiful pond garden.

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Planning Your Visit

Quiet Contemplation Awaits

Daishoin Temple offers a serene escape, especially on weekdays. While not as flashy as some temples, its quietude and the impressive Mori clan graves are its main draws. Be aware that parts of the graveyard might be closed due to maintenance, so check ahead if that's your primary interest.

Mori Clan Graves & Lanterns

The temple is famously associated with the Mori clan, and its graveyard is a significant feature. The highlight for many is the breathtaking sight of over 600 stone lanterns lining the graves, creating a deeply peaceful and solemn atmosphere. The admission fee is modest and considered well worth it for the experience.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Unbelievably quiet
Crowd
Low
When
July
Why
Amazing cicada chirping
Crowd
Medium
When
May
Why
Beautiful wisteria blooms
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Check Graveyard Access

Graveyard sections can close due to fallen trees. Inquire at the unmanned reception if specific areas are inaccessible. Reddit

💰 Modest Admission Fee

A small fee of ¥200 grants access to the temple grounds and graveyard. Worth every yen! Reddit

🌿 Embrace the Serenity

This temple is known for its quiet atmosphere. Perfect for peaceful reflection and enjoying nature. Reddit

🌸 Seasonal Beauty

Visit in May for wisteria or autumn for vibrant leaves to enhance the garden's charm. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Graveyard Access

Graveyard sections can close due to fallen trees. Inquire at the unmanned reception if specific areas are inaccessible. Reddit

💰 Modest Admission Fee

A small fee of ¥200 grants access to the temple grounds and graveyard. Worth every yen! Reddit

🌿 Embrace the Serenity

This temple is known for its quiet atmosphere. Perfect for peaceful reflection and enjoying nature. Reddit

🌸 Seasonal Beauty

Visit in May for wisteria or autumn for vibrant leaves to enhance the garden's charm. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(178 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Daishoin Temple for its profound quietude and the striking beauty of the Mori clan graveyard, particularly the rows of 600 stone lanterns. While some find the temple less flashy than others, its serene atmosphere and historical significance are highly valued. A minor drawback can be occasional closures within the graveyard, which visitors suggest should be clearly communicated.

"If you come to Hagi, make some time to visit Daishōin. It isn't the most flashy temple, but it's unbelievably quiet and the graves of the Mori clan are great.
The temple costs ¥200 to enter and its worth it."

Ian 01

"So quiet"

Giorgio Stevanoni

"Daishoin Temple on Mount Reitsubaki is about a 5-minute drive from the ruins of Hagi Castle, a World Heritage Site.

I think it's famous as a temple associated with the Mori clan, but since it was a weekday, no one was home, so I was able to take my time looking around.

The highlight of this place is the row of 600 lanterns in the back.

This magnificent view, created by human intent, teaches us peace and deep love.

The souls sleeping peacefully.
And the spirits that dwell in the lanterns that heal even those who visit.
It was a sacred place that has continued to heal the earth for hundreds of years."

北村正

What People Like

Unbelievably quiet atmosphere
Impressive 600 stone lanterns
Historical Mori clan graves

What People Dislike

Occasional graveyard closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Daishoin Temple is conveniently located about a 5-minute drive from the ruins of Hagi Castle. If you don't have a car, local taxis or potentially a bus route would be the best options to cover this short distance. Reddit

While the temple is close to Hagi Castle, public transport options directly to the temple might be limited. It's best to check local bus schedules or consider a taxi for the final leg of your journey. Reddit

For visitors staying in Hagi, driving or taking a taxi is the most straightforward way to reach Daishoin Temple, especially given its proximity to other attractions like Hagi Castle. Reddit

Information on specific parking availability at Daishoin Temple is not widely detailed, but given its location, it's likely there are some facilities for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

While it's a short drive, walking from Hagi Castle town to Daishoin Temple might be a bit of a trek depending on your starting point. It's situated in the southern suburbs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee for Daishoin Temple is ¥200. Many visitors find this fee to be very reasonable for the experience and the historical significance of the site. Reddit

Tickets are typically purchased at an unmanned reception desk upon arrival. It's advisable to have cash (Japanese Yen) readily available for the ¥200 admission fee. Reddit

Specific opening hours are not always clearly stated, but it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Visiting on a weekday ensures a more peaceful experience. Reddit

The ¥200 admission fee generally covers access to the main temple grounds and the Mori clan graveyard. However, it's important to note that parts of the graveyard may occasionally be closed for maintenance. Reddit

Yes, the admission fee of ¥200 typically includes access to the Mori clan graveyard, which is a major highlight for many visitors. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The most striking feature is the row of over 600 stone lanterns in the Mori clan graveyard, creating a profoundly peaceful and sacred atmosphere. The temple's quiet grounds and pond garden are also highlights. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring the temple grounds and graveyard. Dress respectfully, as it is a place of worship and historical significance. Reddit

Yes, the unique sight of the 600 lanterns and the serene garden offer excellent photographic opportunities. Remember to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site. Reddit

Daishoin Temple is historically significant as a temple associated with the Mori clan, rebuilt in the 17th century to commemorate the souls of its feudal lords. Its structures are designated as important cultural properties. Reddit

You can explore the graveyard, but be aware that sections might be closed due to maintenance or fallen trees. It's advisable to check at the reception if you have specific areas in mind. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The row of 600 stone lanterns in the Mori clan graveyard is the absolute must-capture spot. The pond garden and the temple's main hall also offer beautiful, serene photographic opportunities. Reddit

Photography rules can vary. It's best to look for signage or ask temple staff if you're unsure about photographing inside the main temple structures. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. However, the unique ambiance of the lanterns is captivating at any time. Reddit

Drone usage is generally prohibited at religious sites and historical landmarks to ensure the preservation of the site and the peace of visitors. Always check local regulations. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the lantern rows and gardens. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions if permitted. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Daishoin Temple offers a unique opportunity for families to introduce children to Japanese history and culture in a peaceful setting. While it might not have playgrounds, the impressive rows of stone lanterns in the Mori clan graveyard can spark curiosity and imagination. The quiet atmosphere encourages respectful behavior, making it a good lesson for younger visitors. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday to ensure a less crowded and more manageable experience for children. The temple's garden, especially during wisteria season in May or autumn, can also be a visually engaging element for kids. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there will be walking involved. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers & Seekers of Tranquility

For solo travelers, Daishoin Temple is a true gem. Its reputation for being 'unbelievably quiet' makes it a perfect sanctuary for introspection and peaceful exploration. You can wander through the Mori clan graveyard at your own pace, absorbing the solemn atmosphere and historical weight of the place. Reddit

The modest admission fee and the relatively uncrowded nature, especially on weekdays, make it an accessible and rewarding experience. It’s an ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle and find a moment of calm contemplation amidst beautiful historical surroundings. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Solemn Beauty of the Mori Clan Graveyard

The Mori clan graveyard is arguably the most impactful part of Daishoin Temple. It's not just a collection of graves; it's a meticulously designed landscape intended to evoke peace and reverence. The most striking element is the row of over 600 stone lanterns, each one a silent sentinel guarding the souls of the departed. This creates a truly unique and solemn atmosphere that visitors consistently praise for its profound sense of tranquility. Reddit

This impressive sight was established when the temple was rebuilt in the mid-17th century by Mori Tsunahiro to honor his ancestors. The scale of the graveyard, with its evenly numbered feudal lords and their wives, speaks to the clan's historical importance. Visiting on a quiet weekday allows for an even deeper appreciation of this sacred space, where the only sounds might be the chirping of cicadas in summer or the rustling of leaves in autumn. Reddit

It's important to note that access to certain parts of the graveyard can be restricted due to maintenance or natural events like fallen trees. Visitors who have their hearts set on seeing specific sections should inquire at the unmanned reception desk upon arrival to avoid disappointment. Reddit

A Sanctuary of Peace and History

Daishoin Temple, situated on Mount Reitsubaki, is a significant cultural property of Japan, belonging to the Nanzenji school of the Rinzai sect. Its main hall, kitchen, study, bell tower gate, and sutra repository are all designated as important cultural properties, underscoring its historical and architectural value. The temple was rebuilt in the mid-17th century, a testament to its enduring legacy. Reddit

Beyond its historical structures, the temple boasts a beautiful pond-style garden. This garden is a visual delight throughout the year, harmonizing with the vibrant wisteria in May and the rich colors of autumn leaves. The surrounding area is also designated as a historical landscape preservation district, further emphasizing its scenic and cultural importance. Reddit

Visitors often describe Daishoin Temple as an 'unbelievably quiet' place, a welcome contrast to more crowded tourist spots. This serenity makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a moment of reflection and a deeper connection with Japan's rich history and natural beauty. Reddit

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