Hottasan Sonenji Temple

Overview

Hottasan Sonenji Temple is a temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect located in Fukuroi City, Shizuoka Prefecture. It's more widely known by its mountain name, "Hottasan," than its temple name, "Sonenji." One of the Enshu Sanzan (three mountains of Enshu), its principal image is Sho Kannon (Holy Kannon, Yakuyoke Kannon, or Kannon who wards off evil). Known as an evil-warding Kannon, its *yakuyoke dango* (amulet dumplings) are a specialty. Hottasan Sonenji Temple is said to have been established in 725 AD by Gyoki. Later, it received the patronage of the Imagawa clan, and it's said that Tokugawa Ieyasu also visited during the Edo period. The temple grounds of Hottasan Sonenji boast many sights. First, the main hall houses a Sho Kannon statue imbued with wishes for warding off evil. The serene expression of the Sho Kannon statue offers a sense of peace to visitors. In addition, numerous historically significant structures remain on the grounds, including the Niomon gate and the three-storied pagoda. The Niomon gate, built in the Muromachi period, is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The three-storied pagoda, built in the Edo period, presents a magnificent sight. Hottasan Sonenji Temple is the perfect temple to visit for prayers to ward off evil or for good fortune. Be sure to visit Hottasan Sonenji Temple to see the serene expression of the Sho Kannon statue and the historically significant structures. And don't forget to pick up some souvenirs unique to Hottasan, such as *yakuyoke dango* and *goshuin* (temple seals).