Anrakuji Temple

Established nearly 500 years ago, Anrakuji Temple has been a silent witness to Japan’s dynamic history. It is a survivor of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945, which left the city in ruins. Although the temple was damaged, its main hall and gate managed to withstand the blast.

The present main hall of Anrakuji Temple is not its initial construction but rather a result of efforts to rebuild the structure in 1788 after a fire in 1758 destroyed the former building. This standing hall, while not the original, has become historically significant as it shows the effects of the atomic bomb, now leaning slightly from the explosion’s impact.

A notable feature of the temple grounds is a venerable ginkgo tree, believed to be around 350 years old. This tree has become an emblem of endurance, reportedly having played a role in protecting the main hall during the bombing by shielding the temple from the explosive shockwave. Its grandeur is visible in both its size and its symbolic standing in local narratives.

As part of the Futabanosato Historical Walking Trail, Anrakuji Temple offers visitors a chance to connect with Hiroshima’s layered historical narrative. The temple’s inclusion in this trail highlights its cultural importance to the region.

While exploring Anrakuji Temple, the ginkgo tree commands attention for its age and the tales associated with it. The temple’s structures, scarred by the events of the past, also invite examination. These elements contribute to the temple’s character, making it a place for both historical appreciation and reflective thought.