Sanshōkaku Hall at Eihei-ji Temple

　Eiheiji Temple is a popular destination among foreign tourists. Sanshōkaku Hall is a place where visitors stop to rest before entering the Shichidō Garan (Seven Main Halls), which form the centre of the temple’s ascetic practices. The ground floor serves as a waiting room for visitors, whilst the first floor houses a large hall. The most striking feature here is the 230 ceiling paintings, created by 144 Japanese painters in the early Shōwa period. The project was overseen by Komuro Suiun, a master of Japanese painting who was active from the Meiji to the Showa periods. However, although he created the large mural on the front wall of the Meizō Hall, none of his works appear in the ceiling paintings.

　It is said that if you find the 5 paintings (a squirrel, two Chinese lions and two carp) amongst the 230 ceiling paintings depicting the beauties of nature, and offer a prayer, your wishes or romantic hopes will come true. However, this is quite a challenge, making it a fun activity for visitors.