Usamikannonji Temple
Usamikannonji Temple
TEMPLE
Usamikannonji Temple is a hidden gem of the Izu Peninsula. Overlooking Usami, the temple sits high on the mountain and boasts to have the largest Peace Kanon statue (standing at 50 metres) in the whole of Japan. There are also smaller statues dedicated to the seven lucky gods. It is said that if you touch them then you will receive good luck!
There is a large car park available.
OPENING HOURS
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
9AM – 4:30PM
9AM – 4:30PM
9AM – 4:30PM
9AM – 4:30PM
9AM – 4:30PM
9AM – 4:30PM
9AM – 4:30PM
Note: Last entry to the hall is at 3:40pm.
PRICES
ADULTS
STUDENTS
￥400
￥100
If you wish to pray to the gods then you should use a 5 yen coin as this as seen as the most lucky coin to pray with. Remember to throw your money into the offering box, bow twice, clap twice, make your wish and then bow once more.
Review
Usamikannonji Temple is the one place I always bring people to if they visit the Izu Peninsula. We found it by complete accident, driving along the road towards Ito and seeing the large kanon statue towering above us. The temple grounds can be a little intimidating as they are full of rows and rows of small statues. Try not to let this intimidate you as it’s worth walking around.
First head to the main hall. Pay for your entry and then look around the exhibit inside. The staff will let you walk around at your own pace before you head up the stairs and walk through the walkways. I first found this place during cherry blossom season so if you’re here during March then definitely come and visit. The cherry blossoms from here look stunning! If you look to your left you are also able to see all the way down to the ocean. It’s a beautiful sight!
Follow the path round and it’ll take you to some smaller areas. I’m not sure what everything is but it’s interesting to have a look. You should also pass by the seven lucky gods. Make sure to touch these for good luck. If you wish to research more about them then there’s plenty of information on the Internet. Their names are Hotei, Jurojin, Fukurokuju, Bishamonten, Benzaiten, Baikokuten and Ebisu.
After this you are at last on your way up to the big kanon statue. The path up to the statue is cordoned off so unfortunately you can’t get a close-up view, however you are able to see it from fairly nearby. After taking all the pictures you want, head back down the path to the exit.
ADDRESS
Usamikannonji Temple,
3496-205 Usami,
Ito,
Shizuoka Prefecture,
414-0001
+81557470658 (Japanese only)
http://www.kannon.co.jp/ (Japanese only)
RECOMMENDED ROUTE:
Usamikannonji Temple is only available by car, however as an alternative you are able to take the train from Atami to Usami and then get a taxi if you wish.
Things nearby:
MABOROSHI HAKURANKAI
LAKE MATSUKAWA
LAKE IPPEKI
