Nofukuji — Attraction in Kobe

A hidden gem rewarding those who is patient enough to walk the extra miles out of the way, a path, most if not all people would attempt to walk, it’s even quieter on the street if you walk on a Sunday morning. I practically walked on the street without seeing more than 10 pedestrians across any of the streets, in fact, I was a bit hesitant if I should continue this journey and honestly I almost gave up navigating this way leading to a noble statue. It was a moment of joy, when I finally see this statue position right in front of me, bowed with respect and gratitude, I am thankful that I made it eventually. The power of not giving in easily! I also managed to spend some time in the vicinity, appreciating the quietness, peace and more importantly, value the serenity with this holy Nofukuji, which is said to have been founded by Saichō (the monk who brought the Tendai school of Buddhism to Japan) in the 9th century. To me, the Daibutsu symbolizes peace, compassion, and spiritual awakening, acting as a spiritual landmark in the Kansai region. While not as massive as the Nara or Kamakura Daibutsu, it holds local cultural importance and is a peaceful place for reflection. Take a moment to appreciate this unique place, as it is less crowded than more famous sites like Nara or Kamakura, and to me, it also offers a quiet,...

Fukuhara 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #32 Nofuku-ji Temple After #33 Shinko-ji Temple, I walked on to #32 Nofuku-ji Temple, which is better known as Hyogo Daibutsu. I walked past Tsu-no-michi Mural, and found Nofuku-ji Temple on my left. Through the temple gate, I couldn’t miss Daibutsu. I walked up the stairs to make a bow to Daibutsu, which is the third largest statue of Buddha in Japan. I proceeded to the main building, expecting to find a Kannon statue there. Of course, with such a large Buddha statue out there, where else can there be a Kannon statue? No, the main deity was not a Kannon statue. I was confused, but managed to remember a small sign which said they have the statue of Eleven-faced Ekadasamukha. I walked back to the sign, and looked around to find a double door under Daibutsu. A plate of the doors said their Ekadasamukha statue is so precious that it usually is not shown to the public but just to the supporting members of the temple. Disappointed half with the closure half with the Ekadasamukha statue sitting under the other statue, I left the temple to find #31...

One of my favourite temples I’ve visited in Japan! A huge buddha sculpture hidden in a residential neighbourhood in Kobe. There was not a soul in sight when I visited, except for a tabby cat prowling the temple grounds. The statue was...