Saimyoji Temple, a Shingon sect temple in Masuko Town, Tochigi Prefecture, is known as the 20th temple on the Bandou Sanjusankannon pilgrimage route. You can visit buildings designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, including a three-story pagoda built during the Kamakura period.
Shrines and Temples
National Treasure
Historic Sites
Highlights
Visit buildings designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, including a three-story pagoda and gate built during the Kamakura period.
The main hall houses a reliquary from the Muromachi period containing the Eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva.
Discover the unique "Laughing Enma" (King Yama) hall.
Experience the tranquil and serene atmosphere—perfect for relaxation.
Temple grounds are freely accessible; a fee of 300 yen applies for entry into the main hall's inner sanctuary.
Train & Bus
【Train】Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from Masuko Station on the Moka Railway.
【Bus】Approximately 70 minutes by Kanto Bus (Masuko line) from JR Utsunomiya Station. Get off at Masuko Station and take a taxi for about 10 minutes.
【Highway Bus】Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by Kanto Yakimono Liner highway bus from Akihabara Station. Get off at Masuko Station and take a taxi for about 10 minutes.
Car
【Car】Approximately 25 minutes by car from the Sakuragawa-Chukushi IC of the Hokkanto Expressway.
【Car】Approximately 30 minutes by car from the Moka IC of the Hokkanto Expressway. Show route
Op.Hours
Temple grounds are open to the public at all times.
Cld.Days
None
Fee
300 yen admission fee for the main hall only
INFO
You can visit buildings designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties.
Saimyoji Temple, a Shingon sect temple located in Masuko Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture, is known as the 20th temple on the Bandou Sanjusankannon pilgrimage route. Its mountain name is Dokkozan, and its principal deity is the Eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva. Saimyoji Temple boasts numerous buildings designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, including a three-story pagoda built during the Kamakura period. Notably, the three-story pagoda is unique for its copper roof tiles, a rarity among wooden pagodas. The main hall also houses a reliquary from the Muromachi period containing the Eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva.
Saimyoji Temple is also home to a unique "Laughing Enma" (King Yama) hall, where the King Yama is depicted with a smile. This makes him more approachable and less intimidating, endearing him to many visitors.
Saimyoji Temple offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind. The temple grounds are rich in nature, featuring a 600-year-old Koyamaki tree and a Shiirin grove. Furthermore, Saimyoji Temple is situated in Masuko, famous for its pottery, with many kilns in the surrounding area. Enjoy shopping for Masuko ware as well!
When visiting Saimyoji Temple, be sure to enjoy its historic buildings, natural beauty, and the charm of Masuko pottery.