The temple, dedicated to the [[bodhisattva]] [[Kannon]], is said to have had a notable influence in introducing Buddhist practices such as the burning of [[incense]], the saying of certain Buddhist prayers or phrases, and Buddhist funerary practices to the local islanders. Local songs (''shima uta'') and summer dances (''hachigatsu odori'') developed around the temple as well. | The temple, dedicated to the [[bodhisattva]] [[Kannon]], is said to have had a notable influence in introducing Buddhist practices such as the burning of [[incense]], the saying of certain Buddhist prayers or phrases, and Buddhist funerary practices to the local islanders. Local songs (''shima uta'') and summer dances (''hachigatsu odori'') developed around the temple as well. |