Fukuzenji Temple

Fukuzenji Temple (福禅寺), perched along the waterfront in Tomonoura, is renowned for offering one of the most captivating coastal views in the Setouchi region. From the temple’s tatami-floored guest hall, known as Taichōrō, visitors are treated to a sweeping vista of the Bentenjima and Sensuijima islands floating in the tranquil waters of the Seto Inland Sea. This scene has long been admired as one of Japan’s most scenic views, praised even by visiting Korean envoys during the Edo Period for its poetic beauty. Framed by wooden pillars and shoji screens, the view from the temple creates a natural painting that changes with the seasons, making it a beloved destination for nature lovers, artists, and photographers alike.

Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Fukuzenji Temple carries deep historical and spiritual significance. It is home to a rare Maria Kannon statue—an image of the Virgin Mary disguised as Kannon, the Buddhist Bodhisattva of Compassion. Created during the Edo Period when Christianity was banned in Japan, the statue served as a secret icon of worship for hidden Christians who risked persecution for their faith. This fusion of hidden belief and Buddhist imagery offers a powerful insight into Japan’s complex religious history. Together with its stunning setting, Fukuzenji Temple stands as both a place of quiet contemplation and a testament to resilience and cultural harmony.