Godaido

Built: 807
Japanese: 五大堂 (godaidou)

The Godaidô is a small temple located in Matsushima, Miyagi prefecture. Originally established in 807, it houses sacred images of the Five Wisdom Kings, and was significantly restored in 1604 after falling into disrepair.

The temple stands on a tiny island connected to the "main" island of Matsushima by a red wooden bridge. The sacred objects are made visible to the public only once every 33 years; the latest such opening was in 2006, so they won't be revealed again until 2039.

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References

Kim Myung-Joong, "Ancient Temples on the Sea Shore," Asiana: Culture, Style, View, March 2017, 21.