往生院

Ojo-in Temple is a Buddhist monastery in Sennan serving as the 23rd station on the Izumi-saigoku pilgrimage route, a circuit of more than 30 sacred sites spanning the Kansai region. The grounds include several structures such as a main shrine, bell tower, and organized areas where pilgrims conduct their spiritual practice.

The temple was established during the early Edo period and became an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhist practitioners in the Kansai region. Its inclusion in the Izumi-saigoku route cemented its role as a steady destination for pilgrims seeking spiritual fulfillment through this traditional journey.

The temple serves as a spiritual focal point where visitors witness pilgrims making offerings and lighting incense in acts of devotion. Observing these daily practices reveals how the site functions as an active place of worship within the local community.

Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the site sits on elevated terrain with several stepped areas requiring careful footing. Early morning visits are recommended when the grounds are quieter and better suited for personal reflection and prayer.

The temple grounds shelter a distinctive statue of Kannon, the goddess of compassion, often adorned with small offerings left by pilgrims. This sculpture is a rare piece from the early Edo period and draws visitors who specifically seek this location to express their reverence.