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Strolling the historical Omori district near Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (Oda, Shimane Prefecture)

 About 4 min to read

The house of the Kumagai family

We briefly stopped by the house of the Kumagai family, one of the prominent historical residences in the town and a designated National Important Cultural Property. Built in 1801, this was a house of a wealthy merchant and town official who enjoyed prosperity owing to the silver production in Iwami Ginzan.

House of Kumagai family

The house has undergone several renovations and sheds a light on how people of the late Edo era used to live.

House of Kumagai family

Saishoji Temple

We continued strolling the historical Omori district and reached Saishoji Temple, which is known to be one of the largest and oldest temples in the area.

Saishoji Temple

One thing that captured my eyes was the decoration on the “kyo-zo,” or the building that stores Buddhist scriptures.

"Kyo-zo" at Saishoji Temple

The photo below shows the decoration up close. Very detailed and beautiful, isn’t it? This is called “kote-e,” which can best be translated as “plaster relief art.” It was done by Eikichi Matsuura, who was often referred to as “the god of plasterers” for his technology and art.

"Kyo-zo" at Saishoji Temple

Kanzeonji Temple

Another temple we visited was Kanzeonji Temple. Because it’s built on top of a cliff, you’ll get to enjoy a nice view of the Omori district.

View of Omori district from Kanzeonji Temple

You’ll notice that most buildings in the area have red roof tiles. These tiles are locally made and are known as “Sekishu gawara.”

"Ji-zo" at Kanzeonji Temple

Once you climb up the stairs and reach the top of the temple, be sure to look on the ground. You’ll find small statues of “Jizo,” or protector of travelers and children.

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