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"A historic wooden temple that embodies centuries of Shinto–Buddhist syncretism, once the private sanctuary of the main Shinto priest of the 8th-century Usa shrine. The 900-year-old structure was abandoned and fell into disrepair in the early 20th century before being revived by the current vice abbot’s family after World War II. Now often draped in golden ginkgo leaves, the temple is renowned for its beauty and close ties to the local community, even as visitor numbers have declined and many smaller nearby temples struggle; the resident monks are increasingly having to think creatively about preservation and outreach." - Stephanie Zubiri