Koonji, Buddhist temple in Chiyoda, Japan
Koonji is a Buddhist temple positioned on a hilltop in Gunma Prefecture with views toward the Yubatake hot spring field and mountain ranges. The grounds contain an Amidado hall housing Buddhist statuary and maintain rows of Jizo figures that traditionally protect travelers.
This temple serves as the 40th Fudasho on the Kanto Pilgrimage, marking one of 91 sacred locations linked across the broader region. Its place in this pilgrimage network reflects centuries of Buddhist devotion throughout the area.
Monuments inside honor poets Kobayashi Issa and Matsuo Basho, who documented their travels through Kusatsu in their writings. Walking through the temple grounds, you can see how this place remains connected to Japan's literary past.
A direct path connects the temple to Kusatsu Bus Terminal, making it straightforward to reach on foot or by local transport. The surrounding area offers various places to stay and eat, so visitors can plan longer visits without difficulty.
Rows of Jizo figures scattered across the temple grounds catch many visitors by surprise with their quiet presence. These guardian figures represent a layer of protection belief specific to travelers passing through the area.
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