OkayamaLeisure

Nichiren sect Nichioji Temple (日蓮宗日應寺)

Flow of the course

About 45 min here

About 15 min to the next stop

Next stop: Watch planes take off and land from the observation deck, then have lunch at the terminal

About this spot

A Nichiren sect temple in Nichioji, Kita Ward, Okayama City, said to have been founded in the second year of Yoro (718). Its mountain name is Chokumeisan, and it holds the nationally designated Important Cultural Properties of a wooden standing statue of Bishamonten and a wooden standing statue of Fudo Myoo, as well as the Okayama Prefecture-designated Important Cultural Properties of the Banshin Hall and a bronze bell. Known also as a spot for cherry blossoms in spring and hydrangeas in summer, it sits in greenery about a ten-minute walk from Okayama Airport. You will not spend long here, but pressing your palms together before heading off to play makes a fitting start to the family's day.

Tips

There are stone steps and a slope, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Since this is a place of worship, it helps to remind kids beforehand not to run around. On days with events or memorial services the parking lot may be unavailable, so if it is crowded, do not push it and just wrap up your visit. Mosquitoes are common among the trees, so bringing insect repellent will make things more comfortable.