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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.
