Mitakidera

Built on the slope of Mount Mitaki in Nishi Ward, Hiroshima City, Mitakidera is an old temple of the Koyasan Shingon school said by temple tradition to have been founded in the year 809 by Kobo Daishi Kukai. Long beloved as the Mitaki Kannon, it has, as its name suggests, three waterfalls flowing through its grounds, wrapped in a quiet air that recalls a deep mountain ravine. The richness of nature is hard to believe so close to the city, and it calms the hearts of those who visit. Known as a spot for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, it is a healing power spot for those in the know.

Highlights

• The three waterfalls flowing through the grounds, Komagataki, Bonnondaki, and Yumeidaki. The pure sound of water echoes, and simply walking the approach seems to cleanse the heart. Their water is even used as the offered water at the Peace Memorial Ceremony.
• The vermilion pagoda. Relocated here from Wakayama Prefecture in 1951 to console the victims of the atomic bombing, it is designated an important cultural property of Hiroshima Prefecture.
• The wooden seated Amida Buddha from the Heian period enshrined within the pagoda, said to bear an inscription from the year 1154 inside the figure, a precious image designated an important cultural property of the nation.

Enjoying the Seasons

In autumn the grounds turn crimson, and the contrast with the waterfalls and the pagoda is splendid, making this one of the leading autumn foliage spots in Hiroshima City. Spring brings the color of cherry blossoms, and summer offers cool relief beside the falls. It is a place to enjoy the feel of a deep mountain throughout the year. The foliage is usually at its best from mid to late November.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: 411 Mitakiyama, Nishi Ward, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima
• Access: About 20 minutes on foot from Mitaki Station on the JR Kabe Line. About 25 minutes by car from the Hiroshima Interchange on the Sanyo Expressway. There are also Hiroshima Bus services bound for Mitaki Kannon.
• Hours: Grounds open freely (check viewing hours)
• Admission: Free (a cooperation fee may apply to some viewing areas)

Practical Travel Notes

• Best season and time: Mid to late November, when the foliage is at its peak, is the most colorful. Spring cherry blossoms and cool summer visits are also recommended. During the busy foliage season, a morning visit is more comfortable.
• Time needed: About an hour to walk the grounds unhurried while taking in the three falls and the pagoda. Allow a little more if you include foliage viewing.
• Avoiding crowds: Weekends at the foliage peak grow crowded. Weekdays or early morning hours are the sweet spot.
• Real nearby spots: With good access from central Hiroshima, it is easy to combine with city sightseeing such as the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome.
• Budget sense: Worship is basically free. Being close to the city, it is easy to drop by even using public transport.

A Quick Tip

The approach is a mountain path with slopes and stone steps. Wear comfortable shoes, and during the foliage season, when it grows crowded, a morning visit is recommended. Though access from the city is good, the grounds have the feel of a genuine mountain temple, so dressing for the weather brings peace of mind.

📚 Sources

The information in this article is organized from the history handed down at Mitakidera Temple, on-site signboards, and details published by the city of Hiroshima and the Hiroshima tourism association. Peak foliage timing and event information can be confirmed through the temple and local public information. Fees, hours, and access may change, so please always confirm with official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About an hour for a visit and a stroll through the grounds; allow extra time in the foliage season.
• What to bring: Small change is handy for amulets and a goshuin, and comfortable shoes help as there are slopes and stone steps.
• Getting around: It is within walking distance of JR Mitaki Station, but the grounds climb, so go at a comfortable pace.
• Suggested route: From the temple gate, worship at the main hall, then tour the streamside grounds and the three waterfalls.
• A note on worship: This is a quiet temple wrapped in nature, so worship calmly.