Located in the town of Chikusa, Ibaraki Prefecture, the Shrine of Kobo Daishi, is dedicated to the Chinese Buddhist sage Kobo Daisen, who brought Buddhism to Japan from China. The Shinto shrine was built in 1869 and is one of the few Shinto shrines in Japan that honors a non-Japanese deity.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- Kobo Daisen
- Coordinates
- 35.8211925, 139.9208915
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's unique blend of Buddhist and Shinto traditions, consider visiting during Obon festival (mid-August) when lanterns are lit to honor Kobo Daisen.
Cultural notes
The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of Chinese Buddhist and Japanese Shinto styles. The main hall is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings depicting the Buddha's life, while the Shinto altars feature traditional Japanese designs.
Historical note
Built in 1869