Kannō-ji

Kannō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Seto featuring wooden structures with traditional architectural details, including a prominent main gate and stone pathways. The grounds also contain a Benzaiten hall and mausoleum set within carefully designed gardens.

The temple was established with ties to the Tokugawa family and houses a mausoleum for Tokugawa Yoshinao, who founded the Owari Domain. This connection to an influential historical family has shaped its standing over centuries.

This temple follows Rinzai Zen Buddhist traditions and hosts regular ceremonies that shape how the space is used and experienced. Visitors can observe how the grounds and buildings serve as active places of spiritual practice rather than historical monuments alone.

The temple is accessible during specific times, with best availability on weekends and holidays. Wear comfortable shoes for walking the stone paths, and arrive early to avoid crowds during peak hours.

The temple includes a dedicated Benzaiten shrine honoring the goddess of knowledge and arts, an uncommon feature in many regional temples. This hall is surrounded by cherry trees that add seasonal color to the site.