Godaido
Miyagi Prefecture · Japan
Godaido (五大堂, Godaidō) is a small temple hall on an islet just next to the pier. Due to its prominent location, it has become a symbol of Matsushima. Godaido was built in 807 and contains five statues which were enshrined by the same priest who founded nearby Zuiganji. The statues are displayed to the public only once every 33 years, and were last displayed in 2006.
Contents
8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Orientation
Welcome to Godaido, an architectural and spiritual landmark that serves as the visual signature of Matsushima, one of Japan's three most celebrated scenic views. This small temple hall is situated on a tiny, rocky island just off…
Listen in the app2Sukashibashi — The Bridges of Mindfulness
The approach to Godaido is marked by three vermilion-colored bridges known as 'Sukashibashi' or 'openwork bridges.' As you step onto these structures, you will notice a unique and intentional design feature: the planks are spaced…
Listen in the app3The Architecture of the Momoyama Period
Standing before the Godaido hall, we encounter one of the finest examples of Momoyama period architecture in northern Japan. Constructed in 1604 under the patronage of Date Masamune, the hall reflects the bold and masculine…
Listen in the app4The Twelve Zodiac Carvings
One of the most engaging analytical details of the Godaido hall is found just below the eaves on all four sides of the building. Here, you will find highly detailed carvings of the twelve animals of the Oriental Zodiac, arranged…
Listen in the app5The Mystery of the Five Wisdom Kings
The interior of Godaido is home to the 'Godaizun,' or the statues of the Five Wisdom Kings: Fudo Myoo, Gosanze Myoo, Gundari Myoo, Daiitoku Myoo, and Kongo Yasha Myoo. These fierce deities are central to Esoteric Buddhism,…
Listen in the app6A Panopticon of Matsushima Bay
From the veranda of Godaido, one is presented with a panoramic perspective of Matsushima Bay that has been lauded for over a millennium. The bay contains approximately 260 islands, each topped with resilient, wind-swept pine…
Listen in the app7The Spiritual Connection to Zuiganji
To fully understand Godaido, one must view it as an integral part of the larger Zuiganji Temple complex, located just a short walk inland. While Godaido sits on its isolated island, it is managed by Zuiganji, the primary Rinzai…
Listen in the app8Closing
As you recross the Sukashibashi and return to the mainland, take a final look back at the solitary hall of Godaido perched upon its island. It stands as a profound symbol of resilience and the harmonious coexistence of man and…
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What is Godaido?
Godaido is a place in Miyagi Prefecture · Japan with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | Miyagi Prefecture · Japan |
|---|---|
| Type | Activity |
| Story sections | 8 |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 38.3698, 141.0643 |
| Last updated |
