Guide
Mizusawa Kannon (officially known as Gotokuzan Mizusawa-dera) is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Ikaho, Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture. With a history dating back approximately 1,300 years, it serves as the 16th stop on the Bando 33 Kannon Pilgrimage. The main deity, the Eleven-faced Thousand-armed Thousand-eyed Kannon, is widely worshipped as 'Yuzu Kannon'—a deity known for being incredibly generous in granting the wishes of the faithful, particularly regarding financial prosperity, health, and safe childbirth. As you walk through the grounds, you will encounter various sacred sites and historic architectural structures.
The origins of this temple trace back nearly 1,300 years. Legend says the main deity was originally a personal Buddhist icon belonging to the daughter of a local ruler. During the Edo period, the temple held significant status as a place of prayer for the Tokugawa Shogunate, evidenced by the presence of the Mitsuba-aoi (three-leaf hollyhock) crest in the decoration of the main hall. As a prominent Tendia Buddhist temple, it has long served as a spiritual and cultural hub for the region.
The center of the temple grounds features the Main Hall (Kannon-do), which houses the sacred Eleven-faced Thousand-armed Thousand-eyed Kannon. Directly opposite the main hall sits the Ryuo Benzaiten shrine, which features a sacred spring believed to bring wealth and healing. Additionally, visitors can strike the temple bell at the bell tower, a ritual believed to increase one's good fortune and financial luck. The temple also houses protective deities for each of the twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac, allowing for personalized prayer and connection.
Mizusawa Kannon is open year-round. On weekdays, the temple is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, while on weekends and public holidays, the hours are extended from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This makes it a great option for weekend travelers who wish to visit earlier in the day. While the scenery changes with the seasons, the temple is particularly pleasant to walk through during periods of mild weather. A popular local tradition is to pair your visit with a meal of the famous 'Mizusawa Udon' nearby.
During your visit, you can offer incense at the main hall or strike the bell at the bell tower to pray for health or wealth. Please note that striking the bell requires a fee of 100 JPY per strike. You can also experience a deeper connection to your zodiac sign by visiting the specific protective deities or participating in water-drawing rituals from the sacred spring. At the reception desk, you can purchase Goshuin (temple stamps) or charms (omamori) related to the zodiac signs.
Mizusawa Kannon is located near the famous Ikaho Onsen hot spring area. After your spiritual visit, we highly recommend enjoying the local specialty, 'Mizusawa Udon,' at one of the many nearby restaurants. The temple is easily accessible by car and is located relatively close to the Shibukawa-Ikaho IC, making it an easy addition to a sightseeing itinerary involving other nearby attractions.
Please observe standard temple etiquette during your visit. It is highly recommended to carry cash (small change or 1,000 yen notes) for offerings or for striking the bell. Since the grounds include stairs and uneven paths, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Please check the posted signs regarding photography rules within the main hall and sacred areas. While no reservations are required, it is a good idea to check official information beforehand as schedules may vary during busy periods.