Satake-ji Temple

Overview

Satake-ji is a temple of the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism in the Tenjinbayashi-cho neighborhood of Hitachiota, Ibaraki Prefecture. Its full name is Myofuku-zan Myon-in Satake-ji, and its principal image is a statue of Juichimen Kannon Bosatsu, also popularly known as the Kitamuke Kannon (the north-facing Kannon). As the 22nd stop on the Bando Sanjusankasho pilgrimage, it has welcomed pilgrims for centuries. Its imposing thatched main hall and its ties to the illustrious Satake clan give it a deep aura of history and faith.

Highlights

• ●An imposing thatched main hall designated a National Important Cultural Property
• ●The dignity of a pilgrimage site as the 22nd stop of the Bando Sanjusankasho
• ●Devotion to the principal image, the Juichimen Kannon, known as the Kitamuke Kannon
• ●A historic temple in the wooded hills that carries the name of the illustrious Satake clan

History

Belonging to the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism, Satake-ji carries on the name of the Satake clan, who once held sway over Hitachi Province. Its principal image, the Juichimen Kannon, is beloved as the Kitamuke Kannon, and its place on the Bando Sanjusankasho pilgrimage route has drawn worshippers widely. The thatched main hall in particular is designated a National Important Cultural Property, a valuable structure that conveys the dignity of medieval temple architecture. For a fuller account of its history and treasures, the on-site guidance or official information is the best source.

Map

36.5260, 140.5047 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Head to Satake-ji by bus or car from JR Hitachiota Station
2. 2View the National Important Cultural Property thatched hall up close and take in its architectural beauty
3. 3Pray to the principal Juichimen Kannon as the 22nd Bando stop and receive a temple stamp
4. 4Return to central Hitachiota and stroll among Satake-clan historic sites and local flavors

Did you know?

💡 The principal image, the Juichimen Kannon, is known as the Kitamuke Kannon, the north-facing Kannon. Its devotional verse reads, in essence, that a thousand years are folded into a single note at Satake-ji, with village pines glimpsed through the haze. Bearing the name of the noble Satake clan, the temple has long been cherished by pilgrims as the 22nd stop on the Bando route.

Nearby spots