Mizusawa Temple (水澤観世音), also known as Mizusawa Kannon, is a Buddhist temple of the Tendai sect located in Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan. The temple is nestled in a scenic mountainous area and is renowned for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage.
Founded in the 8th century, Mizusawa Temple has a long and rich history, attracting the devotion of many historical figures, including Minamoto no Yoritomo and Takeda Shingen. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, and houses the sacred principal image of Eleven-faced Kannon with a Thousand Arms, said to have been carved by the revered monk Gyoki. This statue is unveiled to the public only once every 33 years.
In addition to the main temple building, Mizusawa Temple features a bell tower, a pagoda, and a museum exhibiting a collection of Buddhist artifacts and art. The temple grounds also boast a beautiful Japanese garden with a large pond, a waterfall, and various trees and flowers.
The temple is particularly popular during spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, attracting visitors for hanami (flower viewing). Another highlight is the Rokkaku-do Hall, a hexagonal two-story structure designated as an Important Cultural Property of Gunma Prefecture. Inside the hall, six Jizo statues are enshrined, each representing a different realm of existence in Buddhism.
Mizusawa Temple hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, such as the cherry blossom festival in spring and a traditional Japanese archery festival in the fall.
The temple is also famous for its association with Mizusawa Udon, a local specialty of thick, chewy udon noodles. Numerous Mizusawa Udon restaurants are located around the temple, offering visitors a chance to savor this regional delicacy after exploring the temple grounds.
Getting there
By Bus
From JR Takasaki Station:
- Take the Gunma Bus bound for “Ikaho Onsen”
- Get off at “Mizusawa Kannon” bus stop
From JR Shibukawa Station:
- Take the Gunma Bus bound for “Ikaho Onsen”
- Get off at “Mizusawa Kannon” bus stop
- Journey time: About 20 minutes
By Car
- About 20 minutes drive from Shibukawa Ikaho IC
Details
| Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 279-72-3619 |
| Address | 214 Ikahomachi Mizusawa, Shibukawa, Gunma 377-0103 |
| Official Website | https://mizusawakannon.or.jp/en |