⛩️ Soto Sect Kogan-ji Temple (曹洞宗 萬頂山 高岩寺)

Known for its "Pulling Out Spikes Ksitigarbha" (拔刺地藏尊), Kōgan-ji (高岩寺) is located in Sugamo, Tokyo. According to legend, someone once accidentally swallowed a fine needle, but after drinking the protective charm "Mikage" (御影) of Ksitigarbha, they were able to vomit out the needle that was stuck to the Mikage. Mikage is a piece of washi paper printed with the image of Ksitigarbha. It is said that sticking the Mikage on the afflicted area or drinking it when a fishbone gets stuck in the throat can bring healing. In addition, the "Water Washing Kannon Ritual" (水洗觀音儀式) is very popular. First, a scoop of water is poured over the Kannon statue, and then a towel is used to wipe the body of the statue. It is believed that if one has discomfort in a particular body part, simply wiping the corresponding area of the Kannon statue with the towel can alleviate the pain. In front of the temple is the Sugamo Jizō-dō Shopping Street (巢鴨地藏通商店街), which is also referred to as "Harajuku for Older Ladies." Here, visitors can buy traditional Japanese sweets and nostalgic retro items.

It is said that the talisman "御影" of the "拔刺地藏尊" can bless one with good health and ward off diseases. It is also said that if there is pain in any part of the body, simply rubbing the corresponding part of a statue of Guanyin can cure the ailment, a practice known as "水洗観音." The "巣鴨地藏通商店街" (Sugamo Jizo Shopping Street), lined with approximately 200 stores, is a gathering place for many nostalgic retro goods from Japan.