大善寺

Daizenji is a Buddhist temple in Kyoto that houses a wooden Jizo Bodhisattva statue recognized as an Important Cultural Property. The statue stands in a dedicated hall and serves as the temple's most notable feature.

The temple was founded in 705 by Joē, a son of the powerful Fujiwara no Kamatari family. In the 12th century, five of the original six Jizo statues were moved to different locations, leaving one to remain at the temple site.

The temple serves as a place where local people come to pray to Jizo, a protective figure for children and travelers in Buddhist tradition. Visitors can see small stone statues and offerings left by devotees throughout the grounds.

The temple is located in Momoyama-cho and is within walking distance of several train stations, making it easy to visit. Visitors should dress respectfully and follow traditional temple etiquette when exploring the grounds.

The remaining Jizo statue was carved from a single cherry tree by a renowned artist according to local legend. This work is said to have come from a profound personal experience that shifted the artist's spiritual perspective.