Shimizu-dera Temple

Overview

Shimizu-dera Temple is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Miyama City, Fukuoka Prefecture. Its mountain name is Honkichi-san, its temple name is Fumon-in, and its principal image is Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon). It's also the 16th temple on the Kyushu Saigoku pilgrimage and the 28th temple on the Chikugo Thirty-three Kannon pilgrimage. According to temple tradition, in 806, shortly after returning from China, Saicho (also known as Dengyo Daishi) found a sacred nemu (silk tree) in this location and carved two Senju Kannon statues from it. He enshrined one in Kyoto's Shimizu-dera Temple and founded a hall to enshrine the other here, marking the origin of Shimizu-dera Temple. Later, under the protection of the Yanagawa clan, the current mountain gate and three-storied pagoda were constructed during the Edo period. The three-storied pagoda is designated as a tangible cultural property of Fukuoka Prefecture, and its beauty captivates many visitors. Within the temple grounds, there are also the main hall, Niomon gate, Nyubo Kannon statue, and more, each carrying a sense of history. Furthermore, Shimizu-dera Temple is surrounded by abundant nature, offering a tranquil space for relaxation. You can also enjoy the scenery throughout the four seasons. This is a recommended sightseeing spot for those who want to touch history and nature and spend their time relaxing.