Panduan
Mizusawa Kannon (officially known as Gotokuzan Mizusawa-dera) is a significant Tendai Buddhist temple located in Ikaho, Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture. With a history spanning approximately 1,300 years, it serves as the 16th sacred site of the Bando 3-Three Kannon Pilgrimage. The central deity, the Eleven-faced Thousand-armed Thousand-eyed Kannon, is widely revered as 'Yuzu Kannon'—a deity capable of granting diverse wishes and providing blessings for wealth, health, and safe childbirth. The temple grounds are filled with historical architecture and sacred spots dedicated to these blessings.
The origins of this temple date back 1,300 years. Legend says the central deity was once the personal deity of the daughter of a local ruler. During the Edo period, the temple held high status and was treated as a place for the Tokugawa Shogunate's prayers; you can still see the 'Mitsuba Aoi' (triple hollyhock) crest in the decorations of the main hall. As a cornerstone of Tendai Buddhism, it has long served as a vital cultural and spiritual hub for the local community.
The heart of the temple is the Main Hall (Kannon-do), where the sacred deity is enshrined. Opposite the main hall lies the 'Ryuo Benzaiten' shrine, home to a sacred spring believed to bring both wealth and healing. Another unique tradition is found at the bell tower, where striking the bell is believed to increase one's good fortune and wealth. Additionally, there are areas dedicated to the twelve signs of the zodiac, allowing visitors to offer prayers specific to their birth year.
Mizusawa Kannon is open throughout the year. On weekdays, it is open from 9:00 to 16:00, while on weekends and holidays, the hours extend from 8:00 to 17:00. A stroll through the grounds is particularly pleasant during seasons with mild temperatures. A popular way to spend your visit is to combine a temple tour with a meal of the local specialty, 'Mizusawa Udon,' nearby.
Visitors can engage in traditional rituals such as offering incense at the main hall or striking the bell at the bell tower to pray for health and prosperity (striking the bell costs 100 JPY per strike). You can also experience water purification rituals at the sacred spring or pray to the zodiac deities. At the reception desk, you can purchase 'Goshuin' (temple stamps) and various charms (Omamori) related to the zodiac signs.
Mizusawa Kannon is located near the famous Ikaho Onsen hot spring area. After your visit, we highly recommend enjoying the famous 'Mizusawa Udon' in the vicinity. The temple is easily accessible by car, being relatively close to the Shibukawa-Ikaho IC, making it an ideal stop when exploring other sightseeing spots in Gunma.