Myokoji Temple
Similarly to churches in Europe, temples in Japan are often at the heart of the town. Built in the early 15th century, this Buddhist temple has been ever since the stage of many local festivals as well as the final resting places of the Kuroda family and the Ukita family who both were the family of important feudal lords.
The temple is also home to a magnificent ginkgo tree which has been proudly standing there for over 400 years. When autumn comes, its foliage turns into gorgeous golden colours. A must see if you happen to be visiting at that time of the year!
Yukie Shrine
Situated only a few meters behind the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum, Yukie shrine is known as a sacred place in the world of the Japanese sword. The god who cares for and protects swordsmiths is enshrined in this quiet and holy place.
Historically, numerous swordsmiths would visit this shrine to ask the god to protect their eyes. Swordsmiths depend on all of their senses to produce their sword, but to be able to clearly see is obviously the most important thing. It is said that those who have trouble with their eyes come here to pray for a full recovery. Next to the main hall, people still hang up sheets of paper with the letter め which signify ‘eye’ in Japanese.
