See & Do

Shiofune-kannonji Temple

  • TemplesAndShrines
  • 50 min. by train and bus from JR Tachikawa Station
  • Shiofune-kannonji Templeの画像

About 20,000 brightly blooming azaleas fill the precincts of the temple.

Shiofune-Kannon-ji Temple, which is decorated with seasonal flowers, is accessible from JR Kabe Station in about 10 minutes by bus and then about 10 minutes on foot.

Shiofune-Kannon-ji Temple is a separate head temple of the Daigo-ha school of the Shingon-shu Sect of Buddhism, with Daigo-ji Temple in Fushimi-ku Ward, Kyoto Pref. as its head temple. A separate head temple refers to a special temple that receives treatment similar to that of the head temple.

The origin of this temple is believed to date to the Taika Era (645 to 650 A.D.). Most of the buildings on the grounds have been designated as cultural assets by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government or the city. The large cedars on either side of the Niomon gate are natural monuments of the Metropolitan Government.

From mid-April to early May, 20,000 azaleas of about 20 varieties bloom within the precincts of the temple, attracting many visitors. The round, neatly trimmed azaleas all bloom, and the gradation of pink, red, and white flowers is a must-see.