Overview
Rokujizō-ji is a temple of the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism in Rokutanda-chō, Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, serving as a head temple that oversees twenty-five branch temples. Its mountain name is Guteimitsuzan and its cloister name Shōhōin, so that its full title is Guteimitsuzan Shōhōin Rokujizō-ji. Long revered as a sacred site for safe childbirth and the raising of children, it is one of Mito's foremost temples of prayer.
Highlights
- ●A Buzan-branch Shingon head temple overseeing twenty-five branch temples
- ●The dignified full title Guteimitsuzan Shōhōin Rokujizō-ji
- ●Long-standing devotion as a sacred site for safe childbirth and child-rearing
- ●An esoteric temple of prayer set in the farmland of Rokutanda, Mito
History
Belonging to the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism and holding twenty-five branch temples, Rokujizō-ji has served as a head temple and played a central role in the region's esoteric Shingon tradition. A temple of high standing with its mountain name Guteimitsuzan and cloister name Shōhōin, it carries on the tradition of Jizō devotion evoked by its name, alongside the teachings of esoteric Buddhism. It has been especially known since ancient times as a place of prayer for safe childbirth and child-rearing, drawing many who come to wish for the wellbeing of their children.
Access
The temple lies in Rokutanda-chō, Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture (around 36.35°N, 140.51°E). It is convenient to reach by car from central Mito, and its grounds spread out amid farmland near the Naka River. As visiting hours, prayer reception and parking details may change, please confirm with official information before your visit.
Best season
Prayers for safe childbirth and child-rearing are offered year-round, but visits are especially pleasant from spring to early summer, when the greenery of the grounds comes alive, and in autumn, wrapped in clear air. On festival days the temple bustles with many worshippers.
Map
36.3512, 140.5110 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Pass through the gate and walk the composed grounds of a head temple
- 2Join your hands at the main hall and offer a prayer for safe childbirth and children
- 3Visit the Jizō images and halls, taking in the character of an esoteric temple
- 4Combine your visit with Mito's landmarks for a tour of the city's temples and shrines
Did you know?
💡 The Rokujizō, or Six Jizō, that give the temple its name refers to six statues of the bodhisattva Jizō, believed to save people in every realm of existence. Behind its reputation as a site for safe childbirth and child-rearing lies the deep connection with Jizō devotion, which watches over children.
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