Daioji Temple

Daio-ji Temple, formally Shorizan Daio-ji, is a Soto Zen temple in Shizugawa, Minamisanriku-cho, Miyagi Prefecture. Founded in 1537 (Tenbun 6), the name "Daio" is an honorific title meaning the Great Hero — a reference to the Buddha. The principal image is Amida Nyorai, and the main gate with bell tower are designated town cultural properties. When the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake devastated Shizugawa with catastrophic flooding, the temple became a focal point for mourning the many lives lost and praying for recovery. It remains a place of profound reverence and remembrance.