Shōbōji Temple: A Sanctuary of History and Nature

4.3 (508)

Discover tranquility at Shōbōji Temple in Higashimatsuyama, a historic Buddhist sanctuary with a magnificent 700-year-old ginkgo tree.

Home
Japan
Higo
Shōbōji

Shōbōji, also known as Iwadono Kannon, is a serene Buddhist temple nestled in Higashimatsuyama, Saitama. As the tenth temple of the Bando 33 Kannon pilgrimage, it offers visitors a tranquil escape with its historic buildings and natural beauty, including a giant 700-year-old ginkgo tree.

A brief summary to Shōbōji

1229 Iwadono, Higashimatsuyama, Iwadono, Saitama, 355-0065, JP
Click to display
Click to display

Local tips

Visit in late November or early December to witness the stunning golden foliage of the giant ginkgo tree.
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a long staircase to reach the main temple grounds.
Take time to explore the various halls and statues, each with its own unique history and significance.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Site of Aoyama Castle

Site of Aoyama Castle: A Glimpse into Saitama's Past

Kashiya Yokocho

Discover the Charm of Kashiya Yokocho

Kurazukuri no Machinami / Warehouse District

Exploring the Historic Charm of Kurazukuri no Machinami

Getting There

Public Transport

From Higashi-Matsuyama Station (the nearest train station), take a local bus towards Iwadono. Get off at the 'Iwadono Kannon Iriguchi' bus stop, which is a short walk to the temple entrance. The bus ride costs approximately ¥200-300. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available at Higashi-Matsuyama Station. A taxi ride to Shōbōji Temple takes around 10-15 minutes and costs approximately ¥1,500-¥2,000, depending on traffic.
Walking

From the 'Iwadono Kannon Iriguchi' bus stop, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to Shōbōji Temple. Follow the signs leading towards the temple, enjoying the local scenery. Note that the final approach involves climbing a staircase.

Discover more about Shōbōji

Shōbōji Temple, cradled in the Iwadono area of Higashimatsuyama, is a captivating destination for those seeking spiritual solace and natural splendor. Officially named Shōbōji, but also known as Iwadono Kannon, this temple is a revered site on the Bando 33 Kannon pilgrimage route.According to temple lore, Shōbōji's origins trace back to 718, when a prayer site was established on the slopes of Mt. Iwadono. In 796, by order of Emperor Kammu, it was developed into a temple complex. The temple was later revived in the 12th century by Hiki Yoshikazu at the direction of Minamoto no Yoritomo. During the Muromachi period, it flourished, boasting 66 sub-temples. Although it faced destruction over time, it has been carefully preserved, offering a glimpse into its storied past.Visitors are greeted by the imposing Niō Gate, guarded by fierce Niō statues. A climb up a long staircase leads to the main temple grounds, where the Kannon Hall, originally from Hidaka, stands surrounded by rock walls and 88 small Buddha figures representing the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple also features a bell tower with a historic bell from 1322, a hall dedicated to a hundred Jizo statues, a Yakushi pavilion, and an Ema hall for votive tablets.One of Shōbōji's most remarkable features is its ancient ginkgo tree, estimated to be around 700 years old. With a trunk circumference of approximately 11 meters and a height of 31 meters, the tree is a designated municipal natural monument and attracts visitors year-round, especially during the autumn when its leaves turn a brilliant gold.