Afushi Rabbit Kannon / Bandai-ji Kannon-do

Located at the tip of the Numakuma Peninsula in the southeastern part of Fukuyama City, this Kannon Hall juts out from a cliff overlooking the ocean. Its vermilion-lacquered pillars and beams stand out vividly against the blue of the sky and sea, creating a landscape emblematic of this location. Its unusual location jutting out over the water has long been known as a scenic spot, and was even depicted in ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Hiroshige's "Illustrated Guide to Famous Places in the Sixty-odd Provinces."

The corridor surrounding the hall is slightly inclined toward the sea, and features low handrails. While feeling the ocean close at hand, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea's many islands, along with the thrill of being at a high altitude. The existing hall is said to have been founded by Mori Terumoto, a warlord during the Sengoku period, and is a nationally designated Important Cultural Property with historical value. Inside the hall, numerous "boob ema" (votive plaques)—rare in Japan—are dedicated, conveying the ancient and earnest faith in fertility, safe childbirth, and breastfeeding.

Another highlight is how the scenery changes depending on the time of day you visit. You can experience different views depending on the amount of light, such as in the refreshing morning when the light illuminates the sea surface, or at dusk when the setting sun illuminates the hall's colors and deepens its beauty. This is a spot where you can enjoy the precious scenery that combines Fukuyama's historical heritage with the natural environment of the Seto Inland Sea.