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Narabi Jizō: A Serene Assembly of Stone Guardians

Discover tranquility at Narabi Jizō in Nikko, where stone carvings and serene nature blend for a unique spiritual experience.

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Narabi Jizō in Nikko, Japan, is a collection of stone-carved Jizō statues lining a peaceful path along the Daiyagawa River. These figures, protectors of travelers and children, offer a serene and spiritual experience.

A brief summary to Narabi Jizō

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Take your time to count the statues and see if you can solve the mystery of the Bake Jizō.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the statues, the river, and the surrounding nature.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the riverside trail.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Nikko Toshogu Shrine, exit the shrine grounds and head south along the main road. Look for signs indicating the direction to Narabi Jizō. The walk is approximately 1.5 km and takes about 20 minutes. The path is relatively flat and offers scenic views along the way.

  • Public Transport

    From JR or Tobu Nikko Station, take a Tobu bus bound for Chuzenji Onsen or Yumoto Onsen and get off at the Tamozawa bus stop. The bus ride takes about 10 minutes and costs 350 yen one way. From the bus stop, the trail to Narabi Jizō begins after a 10-15 minute walk through a residential area.

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Discover more about Narabi Jizō

Narabi Jizō, nestled in the Kanmangafuchi Abyss near Nikko, Japan, presents a captivating and tranquil scene. Here, a row of approximately 70 stone Jizō statues stands overlooking the Daiyagawa River. These Jizō, also known as Bake Jizō or Ghost Jizō, are revered as protectors of travelers and children in Japanese Buddhism. The statues, each with unique features, are adorned with red bibs and caps, offerings from visitors seeking blessings. The juxtaposition of the vibrant red against the moss-covered stone and lush greenery creates a picturesque scene, ideal for quiet contemplation and photography. The gentle sound of the river adds to the peaceful atmosphere, inviting introspection and a connection with nature. Legend has it that the number of statues varies each time they are counted, adding to the site's mystique. This phenomenon has earned them the name Bake Jizō, or Ghost Jizō. Whether due to earthquakes, floods, or simply the changing perspective, the inability to obtain a consistent count adds an element of intrigue to this spiritual site. Visitors to Narabi Jizō can enjoy a relaxing walk along the riverside trail, immersing themselves in the beauty of the Kanmangafuchi Abyss. The gorge itself was formed thousands of years ago by an eruption of Mount Nantai, creating a unique landscape that complements the spiritual significance of the Jizō statues.

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