Morin-ji, Buddhist temple in Tatebayashi, Japan
Morin-ji is a Buddhist temple in Tatebayashi with a traditional thatched roof covering its main hall, which houses a sacred statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. The temple grounds extend across a large site with well-kept gardens and pathways lined by numerous stone lanterns.
A Zen master named Obayashi Shotsu founded the monastery in 1426 and established it according to Zen school principles. Local lord Akai Masamitsu donated eight hectares of land in 1468, allowing the temple to expand its buildings and gardens.
The temple houses the legendary Bunbuku tea kettle, said to have transformed into a tanuki and brought good fortune. This artifact draws visitors interested in Japanese folktales and the symbolism of transformation.
The temple sits a short walk of five minutes from Morinjimai Station or about ten minutes by car from the Tatebayashi expressway exit. Access follows a broad path leading through the rows of tanuki statues, which remains easy to walk for older visitors.
Twenty-four tanuki statues line the approach path and greet visitors with different poses and facial expressions. A Buddhist pine tree over 600 years old stands in the temple courtyard and holds designation as a prefectural natural monument.
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