Why don’t you see the beautiful Azalea flowers and scary Buddha statue at once?
I’m Nobu, I like traveling overseas and in Japan, visited 25 countries. I’ve got the license of the certificate English guide in Japan for 8 years.
I show you hidden Japan which you have never seen and heard of!
Togakuin temple
I went to Todogakuin temple in Kawasaki City near my house.
It is located in Kawasaki City, next to Tokyo.
It’s not clear the date of its foundation.
History
But according to the temple’s legend, when Yamatotakeru , mythological hero of Japan came to this area, he felt thirsty.
Then he saw a crane swooping down to drink water.
He looked for the water and found a spring, and satisfied his thirst.
Yamatotakeru planted a tree in gratitude here.
The name of this area is said to have come to be called Shiboku, “神木” tree of the gods.
Thus, a story from Japanese mythology dating back more than 2,000 years has been handed down.
It is a temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism now.
Flower temple
The temple is famous for its beautiful seasonal flowers.
From mid-April to early May, 2,000 azaleas are in full bloom.
On this day, neighbors were also here to enjoy the azaleas.
The front approach and slope of the temple are beautifully covered by the many azaleas.
The current main hall was rebuilt around 1854.
The main deity, Fudo Myoo, is said to be 45 cm in height, but it is a hidden statue and we cannot see it.
Fudo Myoo statue
However, to the left as one enters the main hall, there is a large new statue of Fudo Myoo, 3.6 meters high, created in 2007.
This statue was created to commemorate the 1200th anniversary of the founding of the Tendai sect of Buddhism.
Fudo Myoo is said to be a Buddha figure with an angry face, punishing those who do wrong.
It takes 20 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Noborito Station on the Odakyu Line, and from there it is a 10-minute bus ride.
Why not enjoy the contrast between the beautiful and pretty azaleas and the scary traditional Fudo Myoo buddha statue ?
You will enjoy the essence of Japanese culture!
I’m Nobu, one heart enjoy together!!!