Meitokuji Temple

Meitokuji Temple

TEMPLE

The Izu Peninsula is full of unique shrines and temples and Meitokuji temple is no exception. It is known as the temple for the “god of the restroom” and it is said if you visit here then you will have good bowel movements. The temple even has stones which resemble male and female genitalia.

On the 29th August every year they hold the local sumo tournament. Many locals band together to form groups of three to participate in the lighthearted tournament and even get the chance to stand off against sumo club university students. Participation in this requires sign up in advance and a group of three, however anyone is welcome to come and watch.

The temple only has a few parking spaces available, however during the sumo festival they provide parking nearby.

Review

I have not yet visited the temple to pray, however I have been for the sumo festival. The sumo festival is a very fun event held in the middle of Japanese summer, just after the schools go back. Anyone is welcome to watch, even if you don’t understand completely what’s going on. There are multiple local teams competing to see who will get the chance to play against students who do this daily. I definitely recommend coming to see it if you get the chance!

ADDRESS

Meitokuji Temple,
234 Ichiyama
Izu City,
Shizuoka Prefecture,
410-3205

+81558850144 (Japanese only)
http://kanko.city.izu.shizuoka.jp.e.jj.hp.transer.com/form1.html?c1=5&pid=2501 (Google Translated English available)

RECOMMENDED ROUTE:

Meitokuji temple doesn’t have much parking so it is actually easier to get there if you’re travelling by public transport. Take the train from Mishima to Shuzenji on the Izu Hakone Tetsudo Line. Switch to the bus bound for Yugashima (湯ヶ島) and get off at Ichiyama. You will need to walk from here to the temple.