🗺️ Tsushima Kannon (Eriyama Kannon-ji Daihōin)津観音(恵日山観音寺)

Tsu Kannon was established in 709, boasting a long history, and its official name is "Eiritzan Kannon-ji Daihōin." Locally, it is affectionately referred to as "Kannon-san." The principal deity, "Shō Kannon," is known as "Tsu Kannon," and it is recognized alongside Tokyo's "Asakusa Kannon" and Aichi's "Osu Kannon" as one of the "Three Great Kannon of Japan." It is said to bring various blessings such as good fortune and prosperous business. Within the temple grounds, there is also a statue of the sun goddess from Japanese mythology, Amaterasu Ōmikami, transformed into the Buddha figure "Kokufu Amida Nyorai." Generally, it is not open to the public, but it is specially open for worship on the 18th of each month and during the three days before the New Year. Throughout the year, numerous festivals are held, the most famous of which is the "Oni Oshi Setsubun" on February 3rd. According to legend, Shō Kannon used divine power to suppress demons, and this event is held to prevent them from causing further chaos and to protect the Kannon statue imbued with divine power. Today, it has become a local religious event, featuring a grand "Fuku Mame" (bean-throwing) ceremony. Additionally, the "Tsu Kannon Museum," which periodically exhibits around 600 precious cultural assets such as Buddhist paintings and ancient documents, is also worth a visit. The location is conveniently situated in the city of Tsu, making it easy to visit for worship.

Founded in 709, it is a historic temple. The principal deity, Kannon, is known as "Tsukikannon" and is one of the "Three Great Kannon" of Japan. The statue of Amida Buddha, an incarnation of the sun goddess Amaterasu, is open for worship on the 18th of each month and during the three days before the New Year. The "Oni Oshi Setsubun" held every year on February 3rd is famous far and wide. It is conveniently located near the city center of Tsu.