Kannon-ji

Kannon-ji is a Buddhist temple in Setagaya-ku that houses a revered statue of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, symbolizing mercy and compassion. The grounds contain several buildings with halls and gardens for visitors to explore.

The temple was recognized in 1590 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, as a location for official offerings. This recognition established its importance in the religious landscape of that era.

The main hall displays remarkable works by Edo Period calligrapher Noguchi Sekko, representing traditional Japanese artistic craft. These pieces continue to shape the sanctuary's appearance today.

The temple is accessible daily and offers visitors enough time to explore the grounds at their own pace. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes, as entering the buildings requires removing footwear.

The Yogodo Hall contains eight Buddha statues, each corresponding to a different animal from the Chinese zodiac. This arrangement merges Buddhist and astrological traditions in an unusual way.

Location: Setagaya-ku

GPS coordinates: 35.63642,139.67697

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:10