Jisseki-ji Temple

Overview

Jisseki-ji Temple is a Shingon Buddhist head temple located in Kamiichi-machi, Toyama Prefecture, boasting a history spanning over thirteen centuries. Affectionately known as "Oiwa's Fudo-san," Jisseki-ji Temple is famous for its rock-carved Buddha statue, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property. The Fudo Myoo statue, carved into the cliff face of Oiwa Mountain, is awe-inspiring and captivates many visitors. However, the temple's appeal extends beyond its rock-carved Buddha. It's also known for offering various ascetic practices, including shabutsu (copying Buddhist scriptures), junrei (pilgrimage), and taki-gyo (waterfall purification ritual). The taki-gyo ritual at the Rokuppon-taki (Six Waterfalls) is particularly noteworthy. Participants, clad in white robes, are cleansed by the water cascading from six dragon heads representing the six elements (earth, water, fire, wind, space, and consciousness), washing away the six desires and earthly attachments to purify mind and body. This rare and unique ascetic experience allows you to detach from everyday life and immerse yourself in a solemn atmosphere for a truly authentic spiritual practice. The approach to the temple, known as the "Hyakudan-zaka" (Hundred-Step Slope), is lined with shops and inns that make up the temple's gateway town (monzen-gai). You can savor delicious local cuisine here, including somen noodles, tokoro-ten (jelly made from tengusa seaweed), river fish, and mountain vegetables. The somen noodles, made with Toyama's renowned pure water, are particularly famous, earning Oiwa the reputation of being synonymous with somen. Jisseki-ji Temple is a true power spot, a harmonious blend of history, nature, and ascetic experiences. Visit Jisseki-ji Temple and discover its unique charm for yourself.