Koyasu jizō-ji

Koyasu jizō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Hashimoto featuring many Jizō statues spread across its grounds, creating focal points for worship and devotion. The main statue occupies a central location where visitors gather to offer their prayers.

The temple was founded in 1367 by samurai Hosokawa Yoriyuki and became an important religious site in the region. After suffering damage during the Onin war in the 15th century, it was rebuilt and has continued as a place of worship.

The temple holds meaning for expectant mothers and families seeking blessings for children, as it is dedicated to Jizō, a Buddhist figure who protects children and travelers in Japanese faith. Throughout the grounds, small stone statues placed by visitors serve as physical expressions of prayers and hopes.

The temple is best reached by private vehicle since public transportation options are limited in this area. Plan travel time accordingly, as the nearest major city is Kyoto.

The temple originally housed sixteen statues of Buddha's disciples, an exceptionally large collection for a single Japanese sanctuary. This assembly of works reflects the site's importance in Buddhist sculptural traditions.