Shōgaku-in, Buddhist temple in Iwate Prefecture, Japan
Shōgaku-in is a Buddhist temple in Iwate Prefecture situated at the source of the Kitakami River, featuring a two-story mountain gate with stone steps flanked by lion statues. The main halls and supporting structures are spread across the sloped grounds, surrounded by forested slopes that create a secluded setting.
The temple was founded in 807 by Sakanoue no Tamuramaro and endured several destructive fires over the centuries. The current buildings were reconstructed in 1970 following damage from earlier fires.
This temple marks the 32nd stop on the Oshu Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, a sacred route where visitors come to pray for blessings related to childbirth and safe delivery.
The temple can be reached by bus from Iwate-Numakunai Station to Midou bus stop, followed by a walk through the countryside to reach the grounds. The site is more comfortable to visit during dry weather since the final approach uses natural paths.
A natural spring called Yumihazu Spring sits on the grounds, said to have originated when a military commander struck a rock with his bow in the middle of the 11th century. Visitors can still see this spring today, making it a tangible link to an old warrior tale.
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