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  • Mt Takatori Rock Formations - Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor and comply with the prescribed rules. In order to climb these rocks, you need to register with the Mt. Takatori Safety Mountaineering Council.  The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what this park is most famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965. 
    mt-takatori-04.jpg
  • The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what Takatori Park is famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965.  Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor.
    takatori-buddha-06.jpg
  • The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what Takatori Park is famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965.  Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor.
    takatori-buddha-01.jpg
  • Mt Takatori Rock Formations - Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor and comply with the prescribed rules. In order to climb these rocks, you need to register with the Mt. Takatori Safety Mountaineering Council.  The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what this park is most famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965. 
    mt-takatori-03.jpg
  • The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what Takatori Park is famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965.  Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor.
    takatori-buddha-03.jpg
  • The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what Takatori Park is famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965.  Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor.
    takatori-buddha-09.jpg
  • The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what Takatori Park is famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965.  Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor.
    takatori-buddha-05.jpg
  • Mt Takatori Rock Formations - Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor and comply with the prescribed rules. In order to climb these rocks, you need to register with the Mt. Takatori Safety Mountaineering Council.  The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what this park is most famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965. 
    mt-takatori-02.jpg
  • The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what Takatori Park is famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965.  Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor.
    takatori-buddha-04.jpg
  • The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what Takatori Park is famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965.  Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor.
    takatori-buddha-02.jpg
  • Mt Takatori Rock Formations - Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor and comply with the prescribed rules. In order to climb these rocks, you need to register with the Mt. Takatori Safety Mountaineering Council.  The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what this park is most famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965. 
    mt-takatori-05.jpg
  • Mt Takatori Rock Formations - Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor and comply with the prescribed rules. In order to climb these rocks, you need to register with the Mt. Takatori Safety Mountaineering Council.  The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what this park is most famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965. 
    mt-takatori-01.jpg
  • "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jizo-12.jpg
  • The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what Takatori Park is famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965.  Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor.
    takatori-buddha-08.jpg
  • The giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is what Takatori Park is famous for. This Maitreya Bodhisattva statue was sculpted by Shigeru Fujishima in 1965.  Mt. Takatori is characterized by vertically steep rocks which is likened to Mt. Myogi in Gunma Prefecture.  The view from the summit is outstanding, and it is crowded with people who enjoy hiking on holidays.  The steep rock formations are unusual for this area, and visitors can see many unusual shapes, some which have been cut for the sake of tombstones and walkways.  Rock climbing at Takatoriyama Park is popular here but requires  the guidance of the Mt. Takatori Safety Climbing Council instructor.
    takatori-buddha-07.jpg
  • Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple. "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. There is a group of about 70 Jizos along the Bake Jizo Trail in Nikko. At one time there were 100 jizos along this trail. However, some of those were washed away by flooding in 1902. Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple
    jizo-8.jpg
  • Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple. "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. There is a group of about 70 Jizos along the Bake Jizo Trail in Nikko. At one time there were 100 jizos along this trail. However, some of those were washed away by flooding in 1902. Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple
    jizo-9.jpg
  • "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jizo-13.jpg
  • Jizo at Jimuji Temple, Zushi - Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jimuji-temple-1.jpg
  • "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. The jizos in this image are at Yanaka Cemetery.
    jizo-yanaka-2.jpg
  • Jizo at Zojo-ji -  "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    zojoji-jizo-3.jpg
  • Jizo at Joshinji - "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    daisuke-joshinji-6.jpg
  • Jizo at Zojo-ji - "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    joshinji-3.jpg
  • Jizo at Zojo-ji -  "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    zojoji-jizo-5.jpg
  • Jizos at Kokubunji Temple - Jizo statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers.  The jizos shown in this image are at Kokubunji Temple in Takayama.
    jizo-18.jpg
  • Jizo at Zojo-ji -  "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    zojoji-jizo-1.jpg
  • "Roku Jizo" or 6 Jizo are set at a major intersection in the town of Kamakura - Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. They are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    roku-jizo-1.jpg
  • Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple. "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. There is a group of about 70 Jizos along the Bake Jizo Trail in Nikko. At one time there were 100 jizos along this trail. However, some of those were washed away by flooding in 1902. Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple
    jizo-2.jpg
  • Monju Temple Boddhisatvas - Moss Covered Jizos - Jizo Boddhisatva images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jizo-19.jpg
  • Jiunji Temple Jizo - Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. Jiunji is surrounded by gardens - not only one garden, but  an array of gardens, zen, moss and a pond garden behind the main hall.  It is most famous for its huge old sprawling pine tree, but there is so much ore than that, including zen gardens, jizo, a pond garden behind the main hall and a mos garden leading to the entrance gate.
    jizoji-jizo-01.jpg
  • Jizo at Joshinji - "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    daisuke-joshinji-5.jpg
  • Jizo at Jimuji Temple, Zushi - Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jimuji-temple-3.jpg
  • Jizo at Zojo-ji -  "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    zojoji-jizo-8.jpg
  • "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. The jizos in this image are at Yanaka Cemetery.
    jizo-yanaka-1.jpg
  • Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple. "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. There is a group of about 70 Jizos along the Bake Jizo Trail in Nikko. At one time there were 100 jizos along this trail. However, some of those were washed away by flooding in 1902. Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple
    jizo-1.jpg
  • Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple. "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. There is a group of about 70 Jizos along the Bake Jizo Trail in Nikko. At one time there were 100 jizos along this trail. However, some of those were washed away by flooding in 1902. Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple
    jizo-10.jpg
  • Jizo at Jimuji Temple, Zushi - Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jimuji-jizo-1.jpg
  • Jizo at Zojo-ji -  "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    zojoji-jizo-4.jpg
  • Jizo at Zojo-ji -  "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    zojoji-jizo-2.jpg
  • "Roku Jizo" or 6 Jizo are set at a major intersection in the town of Kamakura - Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers.  They are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jizo-17.jpg
  • Shusshakaji is located at the foot of a mountain range consisting of Mt. Hiage, Mt. Naka, Mt. Gabaishi, Mt. Fudenoyama and Mt. Koshiki.  The sanctuary of the temple, called Shashingadake Zenjo, which is a sacred place for meditation and ascetic practice, is built on top of Mt. Gabaishi that came to be called Shashingadake Peak of Renouncing the World as young Kobo Daishi studied the teachings of Buddhism here.  Afterwards, Kobo Daishi practiced asceticism on this mountain peak, where he carved and enshrined a statue of Kokuzo Bosatsu Akasagarbha Bodhisattva. There is the belief that worshiping here gives one a good memory, wards off forgetfulness and helps one to achieve academic success.
    Shusshakuji-4.jpg
  • "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    joken-ji-jizo-1.jpg
  • Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple. "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. There is a group of about 70 Jizos along the Bake Jizo Trail in Nikko. At one time there were 100 jizos along this trail. However, some of those were washed away by flooding in 1902. Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple
    jizo-7.jpg
  • Shusshakaji is located at the foot of a mountain range consisting of Mt. Hiage, Mt. Naka, Mt. Gabaishi, Mt. Fudenoyama and Mt. Koshiki.  The sanctuary of the temple, called Shashingadake Zenjo, which is a sacred place for meditation and ascetic practice, is built on top of Mt. Gabaishi that came to be called Shashingadake Peak of Renouncing the World as young Kobo Daishi studied the teachings of Buddhism here.  Afterwards, Kobo Daishi practiced asceticism on this mountain peak, where he carved and enshrined a statue of Kokuzo Bosatsu Akasagarbha Bodhisattva. There is the belief that worshiping here gives one a good memory, wards off forgetfulness and helps one to achieve academic success.
    Shusshakuji-5.jpg
  • Shusshakaji is located at the foot of a mountain range consisting of Mt. Hiage, Mt. Naka, Mt. Gabaishi, Mt. Fudenoyama and Mt. Koshiki.  The sanctuary of the temple, called Shashingadake Zenjo, which is a sacred place for meditation and ascetic practice, is built on top of Mt. Gabaishi that came to be called Shashingadake Peak of Renouncing the World as young Kobo Daishi studied the teachings of Buddhism here.  Afterwards, Kobo Daishi practiced asceticism on this mountain peak, where he carved and enshrined a statue of Kokuzo Bosatsu Akasagarbha Bodhisattva. There is the belief that worshiping here gives one a good memory, wards off forgetfulness and helps one to achieve academic success.
    Shusshakuji-1.jpg
  • Shusshakaji is located at the foot of a mountain range consisting of Mt. Hiage, Mt. Naka, Mt. Gabaishi, Mt. Fudenoyama and Mt. Koshiki.  The sanctuary of the temple, called Shashingadake Zenjo, which is a sacred place for meditation and ascetic practice, is built on top of Mt. Gabaishi that came to be called Shashingadake Peak of Renouncing the World as young Kobo Daishi studied the teachings of Buddhism here.  Afterwards, Kobo Daishi practiced asceticism on this mountain peak, where he carved and enshrined a statue of Kokuzo Bosatsu Akasagarbha Bodhisattva. There is the belief that worshiping here gives one a good memory, wards off forgetfulness and helps one to achieve academic success.
    Shusshakuji-2.jpg
  • Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. This jizo is found at Enkoji a Shingon Buddhist temple, number 39 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage famous for its pond garden. It is allso famous for its spring that is said to be beneficial to those with eye afflictions.
    jizo-33.jpg
  • Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. This jizo is found at Chikurinji a Shingon Buddhist temple, number 31 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage famous for its pond garden. It is allso famous for its spring that is said to be beneficial to those with eye afflictions.
    chikurinji-24.jpg
  • Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. This jizo is found at Enkoji a Shingon Buddhist temple, number 39 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage famous for its pond garden. It is allso famous for its spring that is said to be beneficial to those with eye afflictions.
    shinsen-en-10.jpg
  • Shusshakaji is located at the foot of a mountain range consisting of Mt. Hiage, Mt. Naka, Mt. Gabaishi, Mt. Fudenoyama and Mt. Koshiki.  The sanctuary of the temple, called Shashingadake Zenjo, which is a sacred place for meditation and ascetic practice, is built on top of Mt. Gabaishi that came to be called Shashingadake Peak of Renouncing the World as young Kobo Daishi studied the teachings of Buddhism here.  Afterwards, Kobo Daishi practiced asceticism on this mountain peak, where he carved and enshrined a statue of Kokuzo Bosatsu Akasagarbha Bodhisattva. There is the belief that worshiping here gives one a good memory, wards off forgetfulness and helps one to achieve academic success.
    Shusshakuji-6.jpg
  • Jizo in Snow - "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jizo-14.jpg
  • Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. This jizo is found at Enkoji a Shingon Buddhist temple, number 39 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage famous for its pond garden. It is allso famous for its spring that is said to be beneficial to those with eye afflictions.
    shinsen-en-9.jpg
  • Shusshakaji is located at the foot of a mountain range consisting of Mt. Hiage, Mt. Naka, Mt. Gabaishi, Mt. Fudenoyama and Mt. Koshiki.  The sanctuary of the temple, called Shashingadake Zenjo, which is a sacred place for meditation and ascetic practice, is built on top of Mt. Gabaishi that came to be called Shashingadake Peak of Renouncing the World as young Kobo Daishi studied the teachings of Buddhism here.  Afterwards, Kobo Daishi practiced asceticism on this mountain peak, where he carved and enshrined a statue of Kokuzo Bosatsu Akasagarbha Bodhisattva. There is the belief that worshiping here gives one a good memory, wards off forgetfulness and helps one to achieve academic success.
    Shusshakuji-3.jpg
  • Jizo in Snow - "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    amber-lotus-44.jpg
  • Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. This jizo is found at Chikurinji a Shingon Buddhist temple, number 31 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage famous for its pond garden. It is allso famous for its spring that is said to be beneficial to those with eye afflictions.
    chikurinji-24.jpg
  • 52.7 Jizo at Okunoin - many jizo statues are found all around Japan but especially here at Okunoin Cemetery in Koyasan, as they are guiding spirits of the dead.  They are usually shown in the form of a monk with shaved head with a red hat and/or bib. Jizo are also guardians of travelers, so pilgrims will often tidy up the jizo statues, or put on new bibs or hats as a form of veneration.  Red bibs are especially common as jizo are also guardian spirits for children.
    52.7.KII-KOYASAN-08.jpg
  • Jizo Bosatsu at Zenkoji Temple - each jizo is a protector of the next six realms:  hell, hungry ghosts, animals, asura, humans and heavenly beings.
    jizo-16.jpg
  • Jizo overlooking the beach at Naoshima - an island located in the Seto Inland Sea.  The small island is known for its contemporary art museums and public art.  Benesse Corporation, one of the largest education companies in Japan, has directed the creation and operation of the island's museums and other projects since the late 1980s.
    jizo-5.jpg
  • Jizo Bosatsu at Zenkoji Temple - each jizo is a protector of the next six realms:  hell, hungry ghosts, animals, asura, humans and heavenly beings.
    jizo-3.jpg
  • Naoshima is an island located in the Seto Inland Sea.  The island is known for its many contemporary art museums.  Benesse Corporation, one of the largest education companies in Japan, has directed the creation and operation of the island's museums and other projects since the late 1980s.
    jizo-6.jpg
  • Red clad jizos at Okunoin,  considered one of the most sacred places in Japan. People from all over Japan, who wish to be buried close to Kobo Daishi, lie there, including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest.
    jizo-23.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-9.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-1.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-5.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-3.jpg
  • Incense at Meisekiji - Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-10.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-6.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-4.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-2.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-11.jpg
  • Jizo images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. This jizo is found at Enkoji a Shingon Buddhist temple, number 39 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage famous for its pond garden. It is allso famous for its spring that is said to be beneficial to those with eye afflictions.
    enkoji-kochi-08.jpg
  • Taima-dera was established when the Imperial Prince Maroko, the brother of Prince Shotoku, who worked on spreading Buddhism, built the temple in 612. It was originally in the Kawachi region (part of the present Osaka). Because it was moved to the present location in 681 by Taima no Kunimi, a powerful figure of the time, it came to be known as Taima-dera. Its object of worship is a mandala, which is a painting that depicts the teachings of the Buddha. It is called Tsuzureori Taima Mandara-zu, and depicts such Buddha images as Amitabha, Kannon (the goddess of mercy), and the Bodhisattva of wisdom, and what Nirvana looks like. This mandala is also known from the Legend of Princess Chujo, which tells that the piece was woven in one night using threads made from lotus.
    taima-dera-4.jpg
  • Vertical Garden at Ryukoin - a temple of the Shogin sect of Buddhism.  Its official name is: Rinkaizan Fukujuryuji Temple Ryukoin. The main deity is the eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva.  Ryukoin is not among the official 88 Shikoku henro pilgrimage but is rather a bangai fudosho affiliate temple closely associated with Kobo Daishi and the Shikoku Pilgrimage.  Significantly, is the place where Kobo Daishi  applied for the creation of the Shikoku Sacred Sites. The temple Is associated with the Date family the first lord of the Uwajima clan, and later merged with another temple to form Ryukoin. TodayRyukoin is listed as Bangai number  6 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, thanks to it’s close association to Kobo Daishi.
    ryokoin-uwajima-4.jpg
  • Ryukoin is a temple of the Shogin sect of Buddhism.  Its official name is: Rinkaizan Fukujuryuji Temple Ryukoin. The main deity is the eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva.  Ryukoin is not among the official 88 Shikoku henro pilgrimage but is rather a bangai fudosho affiliate temple closely associated with Kobo Daishi and the Shikoku Pilgrimage.  Significantly, is the place where Kobo Daishi  applied for the creation of the Shikoku Sacred Sites. The temple Is associated with the Date family the first lord of the Uwajima clan, and later merged with another temple to form Ryukoin. TodayRyukoin is listed as Bangai number  6 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, thanks to it’s close association to Kobo Daishi.
    ryokoin-uwajima-2.jpg
  • Mimuroto-ji  Zen Garden in Uji is also known as the “flower temple” for its large gardens of seasonal flowers.  Its most famous garden is a classic chisen-kaiyu-shiki or a pond strolling garden. The rounded shrubs throughout the zen garden and pond garden are meant to resemble green tea bushes for which Uji is famous throughout Japan.  The present main hall of Mimurotoji houses the temple's principle image of the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva. 
    Mimuroto-ji-garden-4.jpg
  • Taima-dera was established when the Imperial Prince Maroko, the brother of Prince Shotoku, who worked on spreading Buddhism, built the temple in 612. It was originally in the Kawachi region (part of the present Osaka). Because it was moved to the present location in 681 by Taima no Kunimi, a powerful figure of the time, it came to be known as Taima-dera. Its object of worship is a mandala, which is a painting that depicts the teachings of the Buddha. It is called Tsuzureori Taima Mandara-zu, and depicts such Buddha images as Amitabha, Kannon (the goddess of mercy), and the Bodhisattva of wisdom, and what Nirvana looks like. This mandala is also known from the Legend of Princess Chujo, which tells that the piece was woven in one night using threads made from lotus.
    taima-dera-3.jpg
  • Guanyin, known in English as the Goddess of Mercy and Kannon in Japan, is the bodhisattva of compassion.  Kannon is generally shown as a female though she/he is without sex.  The name Guanyin is short for Guanshiyin, which means Observing the Sounds Cries of the World.  Some Buddhists believe that when one of their adherents departs from this world, they are placed by Guanyin in the heart of a lotus, and then sent to the western pure land of Sukhavati.  It is generally accepted that Guanyin originated as Avalokitesvara.
    Guanyin-4.jpg
  • Mimuroto-ji  Zen Garden in Uji is also known as the “flower temple” for its large gardens of seasonal flowers.  Its most famous garden is a classic chisen-kaiyu-shiki or a pond strolling garden. The rounded shrubs throughout the zen garden and pond garden are meant to resemble green tea bushes for which Uji is famous throughout Japan.  The present main hall of Mimurotoji houses the temple's principle image of the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva. 
    Mimuroto-ji-garden-2.jpg
  • Jizo in Snow - "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. These jizos in snow are at Saisho-in temple, in Hirosaki Aomori, Japan's winter heartland. Jizo are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jizo-amber-2.jpg
  • Named after Manjushri, wisest of the Bodhisattva, Monju Senji Temple on the Kunisaki Peninsula in Kyushu thrived as the early hub of Buddhist culture in Japan. Countless stone statues, many carved into cliffs, still survive into the present day. This area contains more than 60% of Japan's Buddhist images carved on large rock outcrops, cliffs or in caves and movable statues carved from stone. Kyushu is credited as the source of Japanese civilization, from which the seeds of culture were planted throughout the islands. Archaeological findings suggest that Kyushu was the earliest inhabited area of Japan. Records show that first contact with mainland Asia and Buddhism originated in Kyushu.
    kunisaki.jpg
  • Monju Senji Temple Moss Covered Jizos - "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jizo-21.jpg
  • Ryukoin is a temple of the Shogin sect of Buddhism.  Its official name is: Rinkaizan Fukujuryuji Temple Ryukoin. The main deity is the eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva.  Ryukoin is not among the official 88 Shikoku henro pilgrimage but is rather a bangai fudosho affiliate temple closely associated with Kobo Daishi and the Shikoku Pilgrimage.  Significantly, is the place where Kobo Daishi  applied for the creation of the Shikoku Sacred Sites. The temple Is associated with the Date family the first lord of the Uwajima clan, and later merged with another temple to form Ryukoin. TodayRyukoin is listed as Bangai number  6 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, thanks to it’s close association to Kobo Daishi.
    ryokoin-uwajima-1.jpg
  • Fukugonji Temple Garden is usually overlooked by visitors to the Shonan - Kamakura area.  One reason for this is that its main attraction is its garden, which is normally not open to the public except for a peek through the fence.  Fukugonji is a temple of the Rinzai sect of  Buddhist and its full official name is  Tokuniyayama Fukuzenzenji.  Behind the gate there is a plaque with the carved info:  "May, 2013, Yoshitatsu founding 800th anniversary" which indicates that this is an ancient temple. From the main gate there is a large bell hanging  on the second floor.  Fukugenzenji was founded during the Muromachi period as the bodhisattva temple of Yoshie Nagae, who was active in this area during the Kamakura period.
    Fukugonji-Garden-04.jpg
  • Kanchi-in at Toji - There are five stones in the Godai-no-niwa Garden accessible from the reception room that represente Godaikokuzo Bodhisattva, expressing the return of Kobo Daishi from China. In addition, there is a tea ceremony chamber called the Fusenkan north of the main building, a shishi odoshi deer scare, stone lanterns and seasonal flowers create a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Its Kyakuden guest hall is a shoin-zukuri style building beside the main hall looks out over the stone garden and a tea house classified as a National Treasure. Kanchi-in famous for its exquisite gardens as well as an ink painting by the swordsman Miyamoto Musashi.
    kanchi-in-1.jpg
  • Gyokuzoin Jizodo is a temple of the Shingon sect developed by Kobo Daishi. Besides the main temple Jizo-do temple is adjacent as one part of the whole. <br />
Gyokuzoin Jizodo is known for its splendid Japanese garden and stone bridge in front of the main hall, the only one of its kind in Saitama Prefecture. Gyokuzoin is the 55th of the 88 temples in the Kita-Adachi pilgrimage. Besides its historical significance and uniqueness it is a beloved spot for viewing the large weeping cherryblossom.  The cherry tree is 100 years old.  The temple’s Jizodo or Jizo statue has been designated as a tangible cultural property which was created during the Heian period, is enshrined apart from the main temple and has a long history as a temple devoted to Jizo.  Jizo statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth. As such they are often found along roadsides, temples or even street corners.
    gyokuzoin-jizodo-1.jpg
  • Taima-dera was established when the Imperial Prince Maroko, the brother of Prince Shotoku, who worked on spreading Buddhism, built the temple in 612. It was originally in the Kawachi region (part of the present Osaka). Because it was moved to the present location in 681 by Taima no Kunimi, a powerful figure of the time, it came to be known as Taima-dera. Its object of worship is a mandala, which is a painting that depicts the teachings of the Buddha. It is called Tsuzureori Taima Mandara-zu, and depicts such Buddha images as Amitabha, Kannon (the goddess of mercy), and the Bodhisattva of wisdom, and what Nirvana looks like. This mandala is also known from the Legend of Princess Chujo, which tells that the piece was woven in one night using threads made from lotus.
    taima-dera-9.jpg
  • Vertical Garden at Ryukoin - a temple of the Shogin sect of Buddhism.  Its official name is: Rinkaizan Fukujuryuji Temple Ryukoin. The main deity is the eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva.  Ryukoin is not among the official 88 Shikoku henro pilgrimage but is rather a bangai fudosho affiliate temple closely associated with Kobo Daishi and the Shikoku Pilgrimage.  Significantly, is the place where Kobo Daishi  applied for the creation of the Shikoku Sacred Sites. The temple Is associated with the Date family the first lord of the Uwajima clan, and later merged with another temple to form Ryukoin. TodayRyukoin is listed as Bangai number  6 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, thanks to it’s close association to Kobo Daishi.
    ryokoin-uwajima-7.jpg
  • Vertical Garden at Ryukoin - a temple of the Shogin sect of Buddhism.  Its official name is: Rinkaizan Fukujuryuji Temple Ryukoin. The main deity is the eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva.  Ryukoin is not among the official 88 Shikoku henro pilgrimage but is rather a bangai fudosho affiliate temple closely associated with Kobo Daishi and the Shikoku Pilgrimage.  Significantly, is the place where Kobo Daishi  applied for the creation of the Shikoku Sacred Sites. The temple Is associated with the Date family the first lord of the Uwajima clan, and later merged with another temple to form Ryukoin. TodayRyukoin is listed as Bangai number  6 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, thanks to it’s close association to Kobo Daishi.
    ryokoin-uwajima-5.jpg
  • Fukugonji Temple Garden is usually overlooked by visitors to the Shonan - Kamakura area.  One reason for this is that its main attraction is its garden, which is normally not open to the public except for a peek through the fence.  Fukugonji is a temple of the Rinzai sect of  Buddhist and its full official name is  Tokuniyayama Fukuzenzenji.  Behind the gate there is a plaque with the carved info:  "May, 2013, Yoshitatsu founding 800th anniversary" which indicates that this is an ancient temple. From the main gate there is a large bell hanging  on the second floor.  Fukugenzenji was founded during the Muromachi period as the bodhisattva temple of Yoshie Nagae, who was active in this area during the Kamakura period.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-30.jpg
  • Fukugonji Temple Garden is usually overlooked by visitors to the Shonan - Kamakura area.  One reason for this is that its main attraction is its garden, which is normally not open to the public except for a peek through the fence.  Fukugonji is a temple of the Rinzai sect of  Buddhist and its full official name is  Tokuniyayama Fukuzenzenji.  Behind the gate there is a plaque with the carved info:  "May, 2013, Yoshitatsu founding 800th anniversary" which indicates that this is an ancient temple. From the main gate there is a large bell hanging  on the second floor.  Fukugenzenji was founded during the Muromachi period as the bodhisattva temple of Yoshie Nagae, who was active in this area during the Kamakura period.
    Fukugonji-Garden-01.jpg
  • Gyokuzoin Jizodo is a temple of the Shingon sect developed by Kobo Daishi. Besides the main temple Jizo-do temple is adjacent as one part of the whole. <br />
Gyokuzoin Jizodo is known for its splendid Japanese garden and stone bridge in front of the main hall, the only one of its kind in Saitama Prefecture. Gyokuzoin is the 55th of the 88 temples in the Kita-Adachi pilgrimage. Besides its historical significance and uniqueness it is a beloved spot for viewing the large weeping cherryblossom.  The cherry tree is 100 years old.  The temple’s Jizodo or Jizo statue has been designated as a tangible cultural property which was created during the Heian period, is enshrined apart from the main temple and has a long history as a temple devoted to Jizo.  Jizo statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth. As such they are often found along roadsides, temples or even street corners.
    gyokuzoin-jizodo-2.jpg
  • Mimuroto-ji  Zen Garden in Uji is also known as the “flower temple” for its large gardens of seasonal flowers.  Its most famous garden is a classic chisen-kaiyu-shiki or a pond strolling garden. The rounded shrubs throughout the zen garden and pond garden are meant to resemble green tea bushes for which Uji is famous throughout Japan.  The present main hall of Mimurotoji houses the temple's principle image of the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva. 
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-76.jpg
  • Mimuroto-ji Garden in Uji is also known as the “flower temple” for its large gardens of seasonal flowers.  Its most famous garden is a classic chisen-kaiyu-shiki or a pond strolling garden. The rounded shrubs throughout the zen garden and pond garden are meant to resemble green tea bushes for which Uji is famous throughout Japan.  The present main hall of Mimurotoji houses the temple's principle image of the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva. 
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-90.jpg
  • Mimuroto-ji Garden in Uji is also known as the “flower temple” for its large gardens of seasonal flowers.  Its most famous garden is a classic chisen-kaiyu-shiki or a pond strolling garden. The rounded shrubs throughout the zen garden and pond garden are meant to resemble green tea bushes for which Uji is famous throughout Japan.  The present main hall of Mimurotoji houses the temple's principle image of the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva. 
    Mimuroto-ji-garden-7.jpg
  • Mimuroto-ji  Zen Garden in Uji is also known as the “flower temple” for its large gardens of seasonal flowers.  Its most famous garden is a classic chisen-kaiyu-shiki or a pond strolling garden. The rounded shrubs throughout the zen garden and pond garden are meant to resemble green tea bushes for which Uji is famous throughout Japan.  The present main hall of Mimurotoji houses the temple's principle image of the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva. 
    Mimuroto-ji-garden-6.jpg
  • Taima-dera was established when the Imperial Prince Maroko, the brother of Prince Shotoku, who worked on spreading Buddhism, built the temple in 612. It was originally in the Kawachi region (part of the present Osaka). Because it was moved to the present location in 681 by Taima no Kunimi, a powerful figure of the time, it came to be known as Taima-dera. Its object of worship is a mandala, which is a painting that depicts the teachings of the Buddha. It is called Tsuzureori Taima Mandara-zu, and depicts such Buddha images as Amitabha, Kannon (the goddess of mercy), and the Bodhisattva of wisdom, and what Nirvana looks like. This mandala is also known from the Legend of Princess Chujo, which tells that the piece was woven in one night using threads made from lotus.
    taima-dera-1.jpg
  • Jizo in Snow - "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. These jizos in snow are at Saisho-in temple, in Hirosaki Aomori, Japan's winter heartland. Jizo are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners.
    jizo-saisho-in-3.jpg
  • Fukugonji Temple Garden is usually overlooked by visitors to the Shonan - Kamakura area.  One reason for this is that its main attraction is its garden, which is normally not open to the public except for a peek through the fence.  Fukugonji is a temple of the Rinzai sect of  Buddhist and its full official name is  Tokuniyayama Fukuzenzenji.  Behind the gate there is a plaque with the carved info:  "May, 2013, Yoshitatsu founding 800th anniversary" which indicates that this is an ancient temple. From the main gate there is a large bell hanging  on the second floor.  Fukugenzenji was founded during the Muromachi period as the bodhisattva temple of Yoshie Nagae, who was active in this area during the Kamakura period.
    Fukugonji-Garden-02.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple Jizo, Temple Number 1 is located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Found by the water fountain, this Jizo is a Bodhisattva who consoles beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. This jizo is found at Enkoji a Shingon Buddhist temple, number 39 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage famous for its pond garden. It is also famous for its spring that is said to be beneficial to those with eye afflictions.
    ryozenji-12.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple Jizo, Temple Number 1 is located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Found by the water fountain, this Jizo is a Bodhisattva who consoles beings awaiting rebirth as well as comfort for travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. This jizo is found at Enkoji a Shingon Buddhist temple, number 39 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage famous for its pond garden. It is also famous for its spring that is said to be beneficial to those with eye afflictions.
    ryozenji-12.jpg
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