"Ryozen Kannon" Top 5 Page for this destination Ryozen Kannon Tip by Rabbityama

The Ryozen Kannon is easily recognizable for the large statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, atop its temple. The temple was built as a memorial for all the Japanese who died in World War II. The statue itself is large and impressive and the temple grounds are beautiful. There is actually quite a bit to see.

Aside from the main temple (where the Kannon sits), you can walk around back up stairs and actually go inside the Kannon Statue where there are various statues connected to each zodiac sign.

The golden ball in front and slightly to the side of the temple is part of the Higashiyama Jizou tour. It is said that if you toss in some money, make a wish, and touch the ball while walking around it 3 times, your wish will come true.

On the other side of the temple is a small church-like building which commemorates foreign nationals killed in Japan. It includes a cabinet with names separated by country as well as an interesting display of soil from various countries throughout the world.

In front of this shrine, it is difficult not to notice the pinwheels and other items around another memorial. While they may look pretty, they are actually placed here in rememberance of stillborn and aborted babies. Looking at all the children's toys and pinwheels at these memorials is always very sad to me when I know that each is associated with a dead child.

The Entrance fee is 200 yen.

Address: 526-2 Shimokawaramachi
Directions: It's located beside Kodaiji Temple in Higashiyama.
Phone: 075-561-2205
Website: http://www.ryozen-kwannon.jp/