Hidden Gem in Japan | Fukuyama Shinshoji Temple

| Fukuyama Shinshoji Temple. Hidden Gem in Japan | Fukuyama Shinshoji Temple🌸 📍 Location and Access Fukuyama Shinshoji Temple is located in Fukuyama City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. While not as famous as the temples in Kyoto, its unique tranquility and rustic charm are irresistible. From Fukuyama City center, take a local bus and enjoy the idyllic scenery of the Japanese countryside. Farmlands, streams, and low-rise houses pass by, as if time has slowed down. When the bus slowly stops at the station near the temple, you can see the outline of the temple surrounded by green trees, instantly creating a sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of the world. 🏯 History and Architectural Style This temple was built in the Nara period, and the long years have endowed it with a profound history. Stepping into the temple is like traveling back to ancient Japan. The temple gate is a typical Japanese wooden structure, weathered by time, yet still exuding a unique charm. The main hall is solemn and respectful, and the intricate craftsmanship of traditional Japanese architecture is evident in the brackets and eaves. The vermilion pillars glow warmly in the sunlight, complementing the surrounding greenery, creating a captivating beauty. The stone lanterns in the temple are arranged in an orderly manner, covered with moss, witnessing the change of countless seasons. 🌳 Shinshoji Temple in Four Seasons Spring is the most romantic season in Shinshoji Temple. The cherry blossom trees in the temple bloom in full glory, and the pink and white petals fall like snowflakes, covering the temple with a dreamy floral blanket. Stroll along the cherry blossom path, the breeze blows, and the falling petals create a pink fairy tale world. At this time, the temple also holds a lively cherry blossom festival, where people dressed in kimonos shuttle through, enjoying cherry blossoms and tea, or taking photos, and laughter echoes in this pink ocean. In summer, the lush trees provide natural shade for the temple. The pond is full of lotus leaves, and lotus flowers stand gracefully. Occasionally, a few dragonflies skim over the water, creating ripples. Sitting in the pavilion by the pond, listening to the cicadas and feeling the breeze, the hot summer days instantly become cool. Autumn is the most colorful season in Shinshoji Temple. The maple leaves gradually turn red, intertwined with the golden ginkgo leaves, decorating the temple like a gorgeous oil painting. Walking along the winding path, the fallen leaves underfoot make a rustling sound, as if playing the music of autumn. Every corner offers a different autumn scenery, and every shot is a masterpiece. In winter, when snowflakes flutter down, Shinshoji Temple transforms into a world covered in silver. The pure white snow covers the roofs, trees, and ground of the temple, like a tranquil ink painting. The temple is exceptionally quiet at this time, with only the occasional sound of bells echoing in the snow, calming the soul. 🙏 Visiting Experience Visiting Shinshoji Temple is a spiritual baptism. According to tradition, first wash your hands and mouth in the purification fountain to face the gods with a pure body and mind. Entering the main hall, the air is filled with a faint sandalwood fragrance, instantly calming the heart. Put your hands together, close your eyes, and make a wish devoutly. At that moment, all worries seem to disappear, leaving only inner peace and tranquility. There are also many places for prayer in the temple. You can buy an ema, write down your wishes, and hang it on the rack, letting this beautiful expectation take root here. 🍵 Food Around the Temple After visiting the temple, be sure to try the local cuisine. There are several quaint Japanese restaurants near the temple, serving authentic Japanese dishes. Fresh sashimi, soft sushi, and delicious udon noodles are all delightful. Don't miss the matcha desserts, where the delicate matcha flavor blends perfectly with the sweet cream, melting in your mouth, adding a sweet ending to this temple trip. 💕Fukuyama Shinshoji Temple is like a pearl left in the world. It doesn't have many tourists, but it has the purest beauty.