Kosanji Temple: Onomichi’s Hidden Gem
Have you ever visited the Kosanji temple (耕三寺) in Setoda, Onomichi? It’s a beautiful Buddhist temple that was built by Kosanji Kozo, a businessman from Osaka, who dedicated it to his beloved mother. Nicknamed the ‘Temple of Mothers’, it was built to honour and thank mothers for everything they do.
Just stepping through the entrance, you are greeted by bright colours and beautiful architecture. Once you’ve paid the fee (1400円), you will be given a map (don’t worry, they have English) and permitted to explore the grounds to your heart’s content. Divided into three precincts; lower, middle and upper, each precinct contains its own unique building and history.
In the lower precinct, you will find the worship hall and bell tower. Past the bell tower, you can visit Choseikaku Villa that was made for Kosanji Kozo’s mother. English tours are available for those who want to explore the villa and learn more about its history, and I was glad to take advantage of this. I highly recommend visiting this villa, which incorporate a mix of Western and Japanese architectural styles. The rooms inside are gorgeous and I can promise you won’t be disappointed.
In the middle precinct, you will find Gojunoto (the Five Storied Pagoda) and the Sohozo and Hohozo pavilions. With incredibly detailed and colourful architecture, a stunning mix of bright red, green, gold and white, it’s a beautiful spot to take pictures. Particularly now during cherry blossom season, where you can take advantage of the nearby trees to get some truly stunning shots.
Head up the stairs and you’ll find yourself in the upper precinct. It’s here you can truly admire the fantastic colours and incredibly elaborate architecture. While you can visit in any weather, I was lucky enough to visit on a perfectly sunny day. And I was glad I did because the colours truly shone.
You arrive at the Koyomon Gate, see above. Behind it, you will see the Main Hall, a bright red building surrounded by a moat filled with lotus flowers. In the summer, you can enjoy watching the lotus flowers bloom which really adds to the feeling of tranquility as soon as you step through the gate.
Head right and you will find the Cave of a Thousand Buddhas. Inside, as you make your way through the cave, you can see the artwork depicting torture in a Buddhist hell. A stark contrast to the beauty seen above ground. But still, it’s a fascinating sight to see.
If you head left from the main hall, you will find the Great Statue of Kuse Kannon. A goddess of mercy, she stands guard over the grounds and temples, offering her protection.
At the very top of the grounds, you will find Miraishin No Oka or Hill of Hope, an Italian white marble garden, designed by world famous sculptor, Itto Kuetani. On a bright sunny day, this marble garden is a dazzling sight. With large marble sculptures throughout, there are plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the scenery. Take a break at the nearby café and enjoy delicious ice cream too.
How to Get There:
By Car
There is a car park next to the temple. Be sure to pay the fee at the desk. Unfortunately I don’t remember how much it was, sorry. But I know it wasn’t very much.
Address: 553–2 Setodachosetoda, Onomichi City, Hiroshima
By Bike
Find Kosanji temple along the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
By Ferry
Catch the ferry from Onomichi Ekimae Port (in front of Onomichi station) to Sawa port or Setoda Port on Ikuchijima Island. It’s 1300円 one way and takes about 40 minutes. From either port, it’s about a 15 minute walk.
By Bus
Take the local bus from Onomichi station to Setoda Port. It stops at the temple along the way. It takes about an hour and costs 1130円. But please note that buses only run every 2–5 hours.
I hope you enjoy your visit!
Written by Rachel Fahey
