Mizusawa-ji

An ancient Buddhist temple affectionately known as Mizusawa Kannon, traditionally said to have been founded by Takamitsu Chujo during the reign of Emperor Suiko. It is a noted temple of the Tendai sect and serves as the sixteenth station on the Bandō pilgrimage of thirty-three Kannon temples, with numerous pilgrims visiting this spiritual site since ancient times. The principal image of the Eleven-faced Thousand-armed Avalokiteshvara is venerated as a hidden buddha, particularly renowned for its benefits regarding safe childbirth and child-rearing. The six-sided hall within the temple grounds is a rare hexagonal structure, and it is said that turning it counterclockwise three times will grant one's wishes, with many visitors making these turns while offering their prayers. Situated near the Ikaho hot springs, it attracts devotees seeking spiritual and physical healing.