Jōdo-ji Temple's Main Hall, built in 1327 (National Treasure) The main hall of Jōdo-ji Temple is an excellent example of ancient architecture in the Seto Inland Sea region. Rebuilt in 1327 by the young merchant couple Dōren and Dōsho in Onomichi, the hall has retained its original appearance for nearly 700 years. In 1336, Shogun Ashikaga Takauji prayed for victory in battle there. The main hall enshrines the principal image, the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva. This statue is a "secret Buddha," usually kept behind closed doors and is not visible to the public. The doors are opened only once every 33 years. What are National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties? Japan has cultural properties that are widely recognized as national assets of cultural value. Those deemed particularly significant are designated as "Important Cultural Properties," while those of even greater value are designated as "National Treasures."