"Sano Yakuyoke Daishi, one of the three great temples in the Kanto region, where you can pray for protection from evil and good fortune"
⛩️ Sano Yakuyoke Daishi (Soushuji Temple)
📝What's it like?
Soshuji Temple, a Tendai Buddhist temple founded in 944, is commonly known as "Sano Yakuyoke Daishi," a miraculous power spot for warding off evil spirits, warding off misfortune, and praying for good fortune. It's considered one of the three great temples in the Kanto region, and is a popular destination for New Year's visitors.
In the main hall, you can experience a powerful goma prayer ceremony, where the flames, smoke, drums, and the sound of sutras will sharpen your mind. In addition to warding off evil spirits, prayers are also offered for a wide range of purposes, including family safety, business prosperity, exam success, and safe childbirth. No reservations are required for visitors; same-day reservations are accepted.
During the New Year's season, numerous stalls line the grounds, attracting over one million visitors. This is a spot where you can enjoy both worship and gourmet food, including local specialties such as miso buns and takoyaki.
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📌Basic Information
• Official Name: Kasuga Okayama Tenpōrin-in Soshū-ji Temple
• Address: 2233 Kanaikami-cho, Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture
• Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR or Tobu Sano Station, or 3-5 minutes by bus (Sano Yakuyoke Daishi bus stop)
• Prayer Service Hours: 8:20 AM - 4:50 PM (Open year-round)
• Temple Grounds: Open 24 hours a day, free to explore the grounds
• Parking: Free parking available (approximately 1,000 spaces)
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🎯Recommended Points
• 🙏 No reservations required for casual prayers: Prayers for protection from evil spirits, unborn babies, and warding off evil spirits. A short and convenient service.
• 🔥 Experience the thrill of a goma fire ritual: The powerful sound of drums, goma flames, and sutras will purify your soul. 
• 🌸 New Year's visits are filled with excitement and bustling street stalls: The lively scene at the beginning of the year, where worshippers and street vendors combine, is a memorable one. 
• 🏛️ See the Toshogu Shrine and cultural assets: The grounds are dotted with numerous cultural assets, including Sano Toshogu Shrine and a gilt-bronze temple bell by Masahiko Katori.  
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