Jizoin
This Buddhist temple is located at the northernmost exit of the old post town of Hatogaya. Whilst the exact year of its founding is not known, the legend of the temple has it that it was built in the first half of the 8th century. Its principal deity is Kṣitigarbha, or Jizo Bosatsu in Japanese, a Buddhist image that is usually kept hidden from the public and only revealed once every 400 years. However, a statue of Fudo Myoo (literally, the “immovable wisdom king”) created about 800 years ago serves as an equally revered substitute deity. It is publicly displayed (1 p.m. to 3 p.m.) during the monthly prayer ceremony held on the 28th day of each month from 2 p.m. onwards. Within the temple grounds stands a 600-year-old Japanese bay tree with a trunk circumference of approximately 6 meters, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient history, culture, and nature from season to season.
Address
5-5-39 Sakuracho, Kawaguchi, Saitama Prefecture ＜Google Map＞
Access
- Nishi-Kawaguchi Station, East Exit/Bus Stop #4/Route 01 bound for Hatogaya Kodan Jutaku (21min)
- Akabane Station, East Exit/Bus Stop #6/Route 20 bound for Kawaguchi Municipal Medical Center or route 21 bound for Hatogaya Kodan Jutaku (21min)
- Kawaguchi Station, East Exit/Bus Stop #9/Route 18 bound for Hatogaya Kodan Jutaku (27min)
- Warabi Station, East Exit/Bus Stop #3/Route 03 bound for Araijuku Station (24min)
Alight at Sakuracho 2 Chome
