Overview
Carrying the mountain name Fukuju-zan, meaning 'a mountain where fortune gathers,' Yōsen-ji is a temple of the Shingon Buddhist Buzan school in Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture. It is also counted among the sacred sites of the Aizu Sanjūsan Kannon pilgrimage.
Highlights
- ●A Shingon Buzan temple located within Aizuwakamatsu City
- ●The mountain name Fukuju-zan, meaning 'a mountain where fortune gathers'
- ●Its place among the sacred sites of the Aizu Sanjūsan Kannon pilgrimage
- ●An easily reached setting close to the city center
History
Little documentation survives regarding exactly when Yōsen-ji was established, but as a temple of the Shingon Buzan school it is believed to have taken root in Aizuwakamatsu and to have long served as one of the stops on the Aizu Sanjūsan Kannon pilgrimage. For a fuller history, visitors can inquire with Aizuwakamatsu City's cultural affairs office.
Access
Located within Aizuwakamatsu City, the temple is relatively easy to reach from the city center. Even so, it's worth confirming the exact route and visiting hours with Aizuwakamatsu City's tourism office or the temple itself before setting out.
Best season
Aizuwakamatsu is known for its rich seasonal color, and many visitors time their visit to the cherry blossoms of spring or the autumn foliage. Some pilgrims may also prefer visiting at New Year's or at the turn of a season, in keeping with the fortune-gathering meaning behind the name Fukuju-zan.
Map
37.5173, 139.8580 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head from central Aizuwakamatsu to Yōsen-ji and pass through the temple gate
- 2Pay respects at the main hall and look over any signage related to the Aizu Sanjūsan Kannon pilgrimage
- 3Look around the grounds for details such as the Fukuju-zan name plaque
- 4Before leaving the grounds, press your palms together in a quiet wish for fortune to gather, echoing the meaning of the name Fukuju-zan
Did you know?
💡 The mountain name Fukuju-zan suggests the image of 'a mountain where fortune gathers.' Part of the pleasure of the Aizu Sanjūsan Kannon pilgrimage lies in how each of its temples carries its own distinct mountain name.
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