Hasedera Temple in Izumo

After passing through the Niomon (gate with guardian statues), the shady, banner-lined, path leads up to the main buildings of Hasedera.

When I was there a few weeks ago the shadows framed the statues of Kannon, which seemed very fitting as this is Temple number 1 on the 33 Temple Izumo Kannon Pilgrimage.

The main building was covered in strips of paper with what I guess to be prayers on them from pilgrims. I know very little about Buddhist practices and terminology in Japan.

Hasedera belongs to the Koyasan Shingon sect, and I did read that it is the oldest temple in Taisha Town (the name now given to the town around Izumo Taisha, formerly known as Kitsuki.

There is a small shrine to Inari, though it may be Dakiniten, the Buddhist version of Inari.

I like Hasedera. Its quiet, and in a natural setting. Its located west of Izumo Taisha, up a small valley from Inasa Beach.