This temple was built on Mt. Choon, northeast of Setoda Port, in 1400. Since ancient times, it has been revered as the temple to protect the town from disasters and blessed it with prosperity.
Near the top of the mountain, a vermilion three-storied pagoda was built in 1432, which is designated as a national treasure. Looking it up from the ground is divine, but if you go up the mountain further, it offers a beautiful view of the tower against the Setoda Town and the sea. Japan’s prominent artist, Ikuo Hirayama from Setoda painted this scenery. The trail to the main hall and the three-layered tower is kept up and easy to walk on. Come to the temple when you are hiking around here.
After a visit to the temple, meander the Shiomachi Shopping Street at the southern foot of Mt. Choon. This town used to prosper as the “Salt Town” where the salt manufacturing industry flourished. You can still see the past glory of the main post in the Seto Inland Sea where people waited for the right tide.
Today, the transportation has changed from boats to cars. The town is quaint and it is fun to chat with the friendly islanders. In recent years, slick shops began to increase which adds more pleasure to your walk. Lemons, the largest producer of lemons in Japan, and cakes and wines made of lemons are also found here, a great place for souvenir hunting.
Highlights
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The spiritual spot with the national treasure, the three-storied pagoda.
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A famous artist painted Setoda’s scenery.
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The historical and friendly shopping street.
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Hunt for Setoda souvenirs.
