Mitaki-dera — Attraction in Hiroshima

Mitaki-Dera: A Hidden Gem in Hiroshima

Nestled in the lush greenery of Hiroshima’s western hills, Mitaki-Dera (三瀧寺) is a serene Buddhist temple known for its natural beauty, historic significance, and tranquil atmosphere. Located just a short distance from Hiroshima Station, this hidden gem offers visitors a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling streets.

History and Significance

Mitaki-Dera, meaning “Three Waterfalls Temple,” was founded in the year 809 during the Heian period. It belongs to the Shingon sect of Buddhism and is dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. The temple is famous for its three waterfalls, which have been revered since ancient times for their sacred and purifying qualities.

During World War II, Mitaki-Dera played a significant role in Hiroshima’s history. After the atomic bombing in 1945, the temple became a place of refuge and remembrance for the victims. A pagoda, originally from Wakayama Prefecture, was moved here in 1951 to honor those who perished in the bombing.

Temple Grounds and Natural Beauty

Mitaki-Dera is particularly stunning in autumn, when the maple trees surrounding the temple turn brilliant shades of red and orange. The temple is also known for its moss-covered stone paths, wooden structures, and statues of Jizo (the guardian deity of children and travelers), all of which create a mystical and peaceful ambiance.

Key highlights of the temple grounds include: • Tahōtō Pagoda: A vermillion-colored, two-story pagoda dedicated to the atomic bomb victims. • Three Waterfalls: The temple’s namesake, these cascades add to the serene atmosphere. • Tea House: A charming spot where visitors can enjoy matcha and traditional Japanese sweets. • Hundreds of Buddha and Jizo Statues: Scattered throughout the forested grounds, these statues enhance the temple’s spiritual aura.

Visiting Mitaki-Dera

Mitaki-Dera is accessible via a short train ride from Hiroshima Station to Mitaki Station, followed by a 20-minute walk uphill through a picturesque forest trail. The best time to visit is during autumn (late November) for vibrant foliage or spring when cherry blossoms bloom.

Unlike many famous temples in Japan, Mitaki-Dera remains peaceful and uncrowded, making it an ideal spot for meditation, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature. Entrance is free, and visitors are encouraged to respect the tranquil surroundings.

Enjoy Authentic Indian Cuisine Nearby

After exploring Mitaki-Dera, you can visit Bombay Indian Dining, the nearest Indian international restaurant in Hiroshima. Here, you can enjoy a delicious meal featuring curry, naan, and a variety of Indian snacks. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a light snack, Bombay Indian Dining offers an authentic taste of India, making it a perfect stop to relax and recharge after your...

Mitaki-dera is always an amazing place to wander around and listen to the sounds of the birds in the bamboo and wooden forests, take in the stunning shrine and temple buildings and take in the meditative sounds of the streams running through the grounds.

Mitaki means 3-waterfalls and most people walk up the path past stone statues, pavillions, a cafe, a large bell, temples and yes 3 beautiful waterfalls. More impressive and the sound more soothing if you visit in the early morning a day or two after it has rained. That said, even a visit while it is raining is wonderful.

Some travelers may not want to make the effort to visit after traveling around Japan and feeling temple fatigue. Those who do make the effort to visit Mitaki-dera even after visiting many of Japan's most famous shrines and temples in Kyoto and Nara note that it is so very calm and soothing and actually one of their favorites in all of Japan.

Make sure to put at least 200 yen for an entrance fee in the musical entrance stone slots- it makes a lovely noise and helps the staff keep the grounds, statues and buildings in good repair.

You can follow the path all the way through the temple to the Bamboo forest and up to the top of Mt.Mitaki.

Or take a right at the bathrooms just below the main temple building, pass the wooden smaller temple with the beautiful wooden carvings, up the stone steps to the lookout point just above the temple where you can get views of Hiroshima city on a clear day.

Make sure to pause at different parts of the path and listen to the birds, trees, water, bells and chanting whenever you can on a...

I went early in the morning and the beautiful sound of the rushing water through the mist was like something out of a movie. This was occasionally punctuated by the soft deep bass of a large Buddhist bell. Stone steps weave their way up the mountain through panoply of Buddhist statues large and small.

There appeared to be some small restaurants or cafes that the proprietors were setting up for later in the day.

Continuing on from the temple is one of the most spectacular hikes to be found in Hiroshima It's a short 45 minutes to the top, and you can see all of the city and the surrounding Inland Sea

This is a magical place that everyone should visit while they're in Hiroshima. Bring some water for the hike, and some hiking boots or trekking poles. A pair of binoculars is also nice to take in the view at the top. VERY HIGHLY...