Bunchisuri Kannon, Fumon-in Temple

Overview

Bunchisuri Kannon, Fumon-in Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture. Known as a place featured in the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu, it has long been a site of faith for the people. The temple grounds include a Kannon Hall enshrining the principal image of Kannon, a beautiful multi-storied pagoda, the "Mochisuri Stone" famous for the tragic love story of Minamoto no Yū and Torajo, and the Dengōkaku Museum, which displays historical materials. The "Mochisuri Stone" is said to be the place where Minamoto no Yū, a Kyoto inspector during the Heian period, visited while yearning for Torajo, the daughter of the Yamaguchi chieftain. Legend says that Minamoto no Yū, unable to meet Torajo, leaned against the stone in sorrow, and his image appeared on the stone. Bunchisuri Kannon, Fumon-in Temple is also known for being visited by literary figures such as Matsuo Bashō and Masaoka Shiki. Bashō detailed his visit to Bunchisuri Kannon in his "Oku no Hosomichi" (The Narrow Road to the Deep North). Bunchisuri Kannon, Fumon-in Temple offers not only a chance to experience history and culture but also boasts a naturally rich environment, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. Be sure to visit Bunchisuri Kannon, Fumon-in Temple and be healed by its history and nature.