Fukusenji

Fukusenji is a place where you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the seasons. In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the grounds and surrounding gardens are dyed cherry blossom pink. Praying amidst the falling cherry blossoms is sure to give you an exceptional feeling. Also, azaleas are in full bloom, adding vivid colors to Fukusenji. In autumn, the leaves turn beautiful colors, and the trees in and around Fukusenji are dyed red and yellow. The beautiful scenery of the autumn leaves fascinates visitors, and many worshippers come to visit. You can feel the tranquility of the temple while enjoying the autumn leaves. The scenery of Fukusenji throughout the seasons adds joy and excitement to the visitors. The cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, and the autumn leaves are particularly beautiful, and you can spend a quiet time feeling the breath of nature. The seasonal scenery of Fukusenji heals the heart and provides an opportunity to worship in peace.

Fukusenji is known as the only prayer temple in Iwate Prefecture. Many people visit with various prayers in mind, seeking peace of mind and the fulfillment of their wishes. The total area of the temple grounds is about 60,000 tsubo, and there are various buildings on the vast site. Fukusenji is dedicated to the New Shikoku 88 Temples and the New Nishi Shikoku 33 Kannon Temples, and it takes about two hours to visit these sites. Visitors pray for purification and personal growth through visiting these temples, and quietly visit the solemn atmosphere of Fukusenji. The buildings of Fukusenji include the main hall, pagoda, storehouse, Atago Hall, traffic safety prayer hall, Goma hall, bell tower, Kannon hall, mountain gate, Niomon gate, and rest area. While these buildings have the characteristics of Zen and Shingon Buddhism, they also convey the depth of Fukusenji's history and faith with their beautiful architectural style. Fukusenji is loved by many people as a place to focus on prayer and visit in a quiet environment. The well-maintained layout of the vast grounds and buildings provides visitors with a pleasant space to relax.

Construction of Tahodo Hall at Fukusenji Temple began in 1978 and was completed in the fall of 1982. The building was erected with the hope of realizing the return of the Northern Territories. Inside Tahodo Hall, the Five Wisdom Kings and Four Heavenly Kings are enshrined and revered as objects of faith. The Five Wisdom Kings are protective deities of esoteric Buddhism, while the Four Heavenly Kings are guardians of Buddhism. Fukusenji Temple continues to strictly observe monthly rituals in Tahodo Hall. These rituals refer to specific religious ceremonies and practices, and are based on the practices of Zen Buddhism and Shingon Buddhism, among others. Through these rituals, Fukusenji Temple aims to deepen faith and achieve wishes. Tahodo Hall is one of the important buildings of Fukusenji Temple and is a special place for visitors as the center of faith. Its beautiful architecture and sacred atmosphere inside provide visitors with tranquility and hope.

The large Kannon statue at Fukusenji Temple was carved from a single tree and was a labor of love by the head priest, who used a 1,200-year-old tree. The production of the statue took 20 years and included 100 weeks of fasting. The finished Kannon statue stands at a height of 17 meters, making it the largest wooden carved Kannon statue in Japan. Additionally, Fukusenji Temple also houses a statue of Nio, which was carved by the temple's head priest, reflecting the chaotic times and praying for peace while continuing his ascetic practices. The Nio statue was made by the head priest, who was also a votive tablet painter at Itsukushima Shrine, and is revered as an object of faith. The beauty and intricate carving techniques of the large Kannon statue and Nio statue at Fukusenji Temple are admired by many visitors and are an overwhelming presence. These Buddhist statues are said to provide healing and hope to those who have faith and wishes.

Located near Fukusenji Temple, the Folklore Garden is a facility where you can experience the rich tradition and culture of Tono. Here, the traditional way of life and folklore events of Tono are recreated to convey the atmosphere to visitors. At the Folklore Garden, you can see traditional buildings such as curved houses and water wheels. In the craft museum, you can experience making folk crafts such as Otedama and Ema painting. The Folklore Garden plays a role in preserving the history and culture of Tono and passing it on to future generations. For those who want to know the charm and uniqueness of Tono, the Folklore Garden is a must-see place. You can feel the past scenery and life of Tono there, and heal your heart.