Tahoto Pagoda on Miyajima

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Facts & Figures

Tahoto is a beautiful Two-storied Pagoda with a height of 15.6 meters and located on Miyajima Island. The architectural style of this Shinto Shrine sees influences of mainly Japanese and a bit of Chinese and Indian culture. The pagoda has a square base and a round upper level.  Explore Ryokans in Miyajima >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions. Unfortunately on the day of my visit, I was not allowed to go inside. The Tahoto Pagoda is located on a little hill and offers amazing views over Miyajima and the famous Itsukushima Shinto Shrine. During the cherry blossom season, you are surrounded there by an ocean of white flowers.

My tips for local activities

How about exploring Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima and other sightseeing spots in Hiroshima with an English-speaking tour guide? For more details check out this page >

History

The construction of Tahoto was finished in 1523 by the priest Shukan. During the Meiji period in 1868, the Buddhist Temple was changed into a Shinto Shrine. In 1880 the pagoda was renamed Hozan Shrine. In 1901 Tahoto was designated as a Specially Preserved Building. Since 1963 the two-storied pagoda has been designated as a National Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government.

Sightseeing spots

nearby:

Senjo-kaku - huge wooden hall built in 1587 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537 - 1598), it is the largest building on Miyajima Read more >

Itsukushima Shinto Shrine - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see destination in Japan Read more >

Miyajima-cho - The only town on the island Miyajima has the name Miyajima-cho. At the moment 1942 people living there and in 2005 it was merged with the city Hatsukaichi. Read more >

Mount Misen - the view from the top of the mountain (530m) is amazing Read more >

Daiganji - an important Buddhist temple, dedicated to the Goddess Benzaiten, dates back to the Heian period (794 to 1185)

Daishoin Temple - this Shingon temple is one of the most important in the western part of Japan Read more >

Miyajima Aquarium - reopened in August 2011, it is a Seto Inland Sea-themed aquarium

Museum of Historical and Folklore Materials - constructed in 1830's, 3000 items about the Miyajima history are on display

Momijidani Park - located at the base of Mount Misen, the best time to visit is the Autumn season

Goju-no-to (Five-Storied Pagoda) - the vermillion-colored pagoda with a height of 27.6 meters is an impressive sight Read more >

Omoto Park - it is one of the best cherry blossom spots on Miyajima island Read more >

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

February

Miyajima Oysters Festival (9th till 10th)
Miyajima is famous for its oysters. This festival gives you the chance to enjoy this delicious food.

March

Kiyomori Festival (22nd)
The Itsukushima Shrine prayer parade is held from 1 to 3 pm.

August

Kangensai Festival (4th)
The largest annual festival at the Itsukushima Shrine is dating back to the Heian period.

Miyajima Water Fireworks Display (11th)
Every year more than 300 000 visitors enjoy this spectacle. It is considered to be one of the most famous in Japan.

November

Hiwatarishiki in Daiganji (3rd)
Monks from Miyajima island walk over the fire during the ceremony. If you are brave enough you can join them:)