Ever wondered how parents seek blessings for their children? Here at \u5b50\u5b88\u5730\u8535\u5c0a you can feel the deep faith of parents. This temple located in Osaka holds over 600 years of history. It is unique in the area.
\u5b50\u5b88\u5730\u8535\u5c0a is known as the only Jizo Bodhisattva in the region that protects children. Many people come to worship here. A wooden Jizo statue is loaned out as a substitute guardian. This has been practiced for a long time. Over ten thousand wooden Jizo statues have been loaned. This includes some overseas.
Every year on May 3rd and 4th, \u5b50\u5b88\u5730\u8535\u5c0a holds a grand festival. Parents come to borrow a new Jizo. Some families return a Jizo they borrowed earlier. The festival is a lively event for parents and children. During this time, wooden statues are brought back to the temple. People can receive blessings for their children. Many families visit to pray for their children’s health and growth.
During the festival, you can experience traditional performances. These include a baby dance and sacred songs. Children in beautiful costumes perform a dance. It expresses gratitude for the past year and wishes for the year ahead.
\u5b50\u5b88\u5730\u8535\u5c0a also has a unique custom. The loaned Jizo statues are a local tradition. When visiting, look at the Jizo figures displayed by local families. Each family shows their unique devotion.
If traveling by car, it is about 20 minutes from the Futamoto-Matsu IC on the Tohoku Expressway. During the grand festival, parking guidance is available. The address is Fukushima Prefecture, Futamoto-Matsu City, Kohama Aza Sakashita 1.
Prayers are held from 9 am to 5 pm. It can get crowded in the morning. It is recommended to visit in the afternoon. Baby dances are performed at 2 pm on May 3rd. They also take place at 10 am and 2 pm on May 4th.
You can visit \u5b50\u5b88\u5730\u8535\u5c0a throughout the year. The main hall is open to the public on Sunday mornings.
\u5b50\u5b88\u5730\u8535\u5c0a offers a unique glimpse into local faith. The tradition of borrowing Jizo statues shows the community’s care for its children. Please come and witness this beautiful tradition.