Ofusa Kannon, Buddhist temple in Kashihara, Japan.
Ofusa Kannon is a Buddhist temple in Kashihara with extensive gardens containing thousands of rose varieties alongside traditional Japanese buildings. The grounds feature ponds with koi fish and are arranged around classical temple structures typical of the region.
Founded in 1650, the temple began with a local girl named Ofusa who prayed to the Buddhist deity Kannon at this location. This origin story became the foundation for the spiritual place that exists today.
This place is part of three spiritual pilgrimage routes that connect sacred sites across the region. Visitors walking through notice how different pilgrims move through the grounds with quiet reverence.
The temple is accessible by multiple public transportation options and sits near the historic Imai-cho district. Comfortable walking shoes are helpful since the gardens invite exploration and pathways wind across the grounds.
From July through August, the annual Wind Chime Festival decorates the garden paths with countless chimes that create gentle sounds. This seasonal display adds an extra sensory dimension to walking through the grounds.
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