Jiunji Temple, Kanman Gorge [Tochigi]

【Kanman Gorge summary】

Kanman Gorge is a scenic spot formed by lava erupted from Mt. Nantai, and is said to be a sacred place where Fudo Myoo appears. It is said that the name “Kanman Gorge” was taken from the last word of the mantra by the great priest Koukai, because the flow of the river sounded like the chanting of the mantra of Fudo Myoo. In those days, many people visited this place for worship and recreation, and Matsuo Basho, famous for “Okunohosomichi” (The Road to the Deep North), also stopped by during his travels.

【Jiunji Temple】

Jiunji Temple was founded in 1654 by Koukai, a high disciple of Tenkai (Jigen Daishi). Jiunji Temple, Reihikaku, a 2 meter high stone statue of Fudo Myoo, and other structures were built and maintained at Rigarafuchi. In 1902, the temple was washed away by Typhoon Ashio, which flooded the Ootani River, but was rebuilt in 1973. The hall enshrines Amida Nyorai and Tenkai.

There is a group of about 70 Jizo statues next to Jiunji Temple.

【Jiunji Temple Narabi Jizo(Jizo Statues)】

This Jizo is called “Kake-jizo” (meaning “a transformed Jizo” in Japanese) because the number of Jizo is said to be different each time it is counted. It is said that this Jizo was built by Tenkai’s disciples to mourn the loss of successive generations of Nikko-zan monks. It is said that quite a few of them were washed away by the flooding of the Oya River, but they were restored by local volunteers. It is said that there were about 100 of them at that time.

【Jiunji Temple, Kanman Gorge Nearby attractions】

Shinbashi Bridge, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Nikko Futaarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, Taiyuin

Shinkyo Bridge [Tochigi]

Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple and Taiyuin [Tochigi]

Nikko Futarasan jinja Shrine [Tochigi]

Nikko Toshogu Shrine [Tochigi]

【Jiunji Temple, Kanman Gorge Access】

関連投稿(Related Posts):

Shinkyo Bridge [Tochigi] Nikko Toshogu Shrine [Tochigi] Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple and Taiyuin [Tochigi] Takino’o Shrine [Tochigi]