Jōnen-ji

Jōnen-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kizugawa featuring a main hall, a five-story red pagoda, and multiple Buddhist statues representing different periods of Japanese architectural tradition. The complex demonstrates how sacred buildings evolved and developed across several centuries.

Emperor Shomu commissioned High Priest Roben of Todai-ji Temple to establish this religious site in 735, initially calling it Kannon-ji. The name changed as the pagoda was constructed in 1214 under High Monk Jishin Shonin, giving the site its present identity.

The temple houses two significant Kannon statues that serve as focal points for worship and reflection. The smaller of the two statues exemplifies the craftsmanship valued in Japanese Buddhist practice.

The temple is about a ten-minute walk from Kamo Station on the Yamatoji Line. This short distance makes a visit easy to fit into a day of exploring the area.

The five-story pagoda opens to the public only once each year in October for viewing. This annual opening makes visits during that month particularly special for those wanting to see the interior.