Shōfuku-ji, Buddhist temple in Odawara, Japan
Shōfuku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Odawara with several traditional buildings, featuring its main hall from 1706 as the oldest structure on the grounds. A Kannon image from Tang China serves as the central object of devotion at this temple.
The temple was founded during the Nara period by priest Dōkyō for Empress Kōken and originally housed the sacred Kannon image. Over time, it developed into an important station on the regional pilgrimage network.
This temple serves as the fifth station on the Bandō Sanjūsankasho pilgrimage route, connecting 33 Buddhist temples across the Kantō region. Pilgrims traveling the route stop here to receive stamps in their books.
The temple maintains regular visiting hours and is easily accessible by public transport. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and remove their shoes before entering the buildings.
The grounds house a bronze bell dating to 1629, a rare example of metalwork from that era. The bell continues to sound during certain ceremonies and prayer gatherings today.
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