Kangi-in Temple

What it is

• A Koyasan Shingon Buddhist temple established in 1179 by Saito Betto Sanemori
• Commonly known as Menuma Shoden-zan and dedicated to the deity Daisho Kangiten
• Recognized as one of the three major Shoden temples in Japan
• The 88th site on the Kanto 88 Pilgrimage circuit

What to see

• The Shodendo main hall which was designated a National Treasure in 2012
• The Kisomon Gate which is a designated Important Cultural Property
• Detailed architecture rebuilt between the years 1735 and 1760
• Local specialty long thin inari sushi sold in the surrounding area

When to go

• Major festivals are held annually on April 18 and 19
• Autumn festival celebrations take place on October 18 and 19

Getting there

• Accessible by taking a bus from Kumagaya Station

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.