Konjō-in, Buddhist temple in Kami-Yamaguchi, Japan.
Konjō-in is a Buddhist temple in Kami-Yamaguchi featuring multiple buildings including a main hall, gates, a water purification pavilion, and dedicated chambers such as the Dainichi Hall and Thousand Buddha Hall. The layout follows a traditional arrangement that gives visitors a complete view of the different functions and sacred spaces within the complex.
The temple was founded between 810 and 824 by Buddhist monk Kukai and later gained prominence when military leader Nitta Yoshisada used it as a place of prayer during his campaign against Kamakura. This early connection between spirituality and power shaped the temple's role in regional history.
The main altar holds a thousand-armed Kannon statue displayed to the public only once every 33 years during special ceremonies, making this rare event a focal point of spiritual devotion. This practice ties the temple to ancient religious traditions and draws pilgrims seeking to witness the extraordinary occasion.
The temple sits near Seibu Kyujo-mae Station on the Seibu Railway Sayama Line and is easily reached by a short walk from the station. The grounds are open to visitors on most days, allowing you to explore the buildings and outdoor areas at your own pace.
The grounds house a Korean-style bronze gong designated as a cultural property of Tokorozawa City, an artifact visitors often overlook. Additionally, the temple serves as one of five stations on the Okutama New Shikoku Pilgrimage Route, giving it significance for longer spiritual journeys.
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