🗺️ Fukuchi Mountain Shūzenji

The official name of Fukuchiyama Shūzenji is "Fukuchiyama Shūzenji Man'an Zen Temple," located in the picturesque Shūzenji Onsen town, which boasts beautiful scenery throughout the year. It is also famous for being the backdrop of the historical play "Shūzenji Monogatari" written by Okamoto Kido, a renowned writer active during Japan's Meiji era. This famous ancient temple in Izu was founded by the great monk Kōbō Daishi Kūkai in the year 807. Over the long years, the temple has witnessed the prosperity of the Hōjō clan's conversion during the Kamakura period (1185-1333), as well as the rise and fall of the Hōjō and Minamoto clans. Initially established as a Shingon sect temple, it later became a Sōtō sect temple. There are many attractions worth visiting around Shūzenji Temple. For example, "Dokko no Yu," the source of Shūzenji hot springs, is said to be a sacred spring excavated by Kōbō Daishi using Buddhist tools. There is also the "Hiyoshi Shrine," which guards the temple, and "Hakoyu," where Minamoto no Yoriie was attacked. Additionally, there is the "Bamboo Grove Path," where you can stroll while listening to the gentle sound of flowing water; the path is especially charming when lit up at night. Standing beside the mountain gate are two "Nioh Statues," rare works from the Heian period in Japan, which are definitely worth seeing. After passing through the mountain gate, you will find the "Mizuya" (water pavilion) on the right. The water flowing from the Mizuya is directly sourced from the "Katsuradani Reizen Daishi no Yu." It is used not only for washing hands and rinsing mouths before worship but is also safe to drink. The temple was rated as a two-star attraction by the French "Michelin Green Guide Japan" and is very close to the inns in the hot spring town, making it easy to visit after a leisurely walk from the ryokan. At the same time, you can fully enjoy the charming scenery of the old streets in this hot spring town, known as "Little Kyoto of Izu."

A temple located in the center of Shuzenji Onsen street. The two "Nio" statues beside the mountain gate are definitely worth a look. The water from the "Mizuyasan" within the premises flows directly from the hot spring source. It has been rated as a two-star attraction by the French "Michelin Green Guide: Japan."