Tourist attraction • Setodacho Setoda, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-2411, Japan
Senbutsu-do Jigoku-kyo in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, is known for being a cave where one can visually experience paradise and hell. This rare tourist attraction features approximately 1000 stone Buddhas, depicting vivid and realistic scenes of hell as well as the hopeful landscape of paradise.
To reach Senbutsu-do Jigoku-kyo, follow the path leading to the cave entrance from beside the main hall of Kozanji Temple. Stepping into the 350-meter underground space, you will encounter a mysterious world constructed from the lava of Mount Fuji and volcanic rocks from Mount Asama.
As you venture deeper into the cave, you will come across numerous stone Jizo statues and Buddha images carved into the rock face. The images portray the suffering of people trapped by worldly desires and the depths of hellish torment, prompting reflection on the depth of human sin.
However, what awaits beyond is a world of paradise, with Buddha images surrounded by a pure pond. The sound of waterfalls can be heard, and one might begin to feel the emotions of liberation and tranquility.
Senbutsu-do Jigoku-kyo is said to express a microcosm of life detached from the everyday world. By freeing oneself from worldly troubles and eventually reaching the world of paradise, this journey becomes an opportunity to reflect on the nature of our lives.
Beyond its religious message, this unique space offers the chance to contemplate the fundamental questions of life through the experience. We highly recommend you to visit and immerse yourself in the worldview of Senbutsu-do Jigoku-kyo.
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