Place of worship • 44 Setodachō Setoda, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-2411, Japan
Standing in the lush temple, this is the hidden place of the Seto Inland Sea
Honen-ji overlooks the calm Seto Inland Sea. The sunlight filtering through the treetops has been casting a gentle light on the temple that has been there for a long time. Walking along the approach, a lush green moss-covered temple grounds will spread out, and the main hall is nestled in the back.
This historic temple is also the family temple of the wealthy merchant Katsushika family from the Edo period. The temple grounds hold the tombs of the Katsushika family for generations, revealing the elegance of a prestigious family. However, as time passes, people also feel the fading and desolation.
Few worshippers and almost no sound of footsteps can be heard in the tranquil grounds. It seems as if time has stopped there. While it has the dignity of a famous temple, it also exudes a familiar atmosphere. The amiable personality of the head priest may also be creating such an atmosphere.
During the cherry blossom season in April, you can walk among the falling petals in the temple area. The falling petals bring a unique charm to the scenery that has experienced hundreds of years.
This small temple is infused with the history of the inlet village and the aroma of people's lives blown by the sea breeze. By surrendering to the moment of tranquility, you may experience a world with a different charm from the present day.