Jakusho-ji Temple “also call as Wakamatsu dera”, located in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture, is the first temple on the Mogami 33 Kannon Pilgrimage. Known as ‘Izumo of the West, Jakusho-ji of the East,’ it has long been deeply revered as a Kannon for matchmaking. In addition to being famous for prayers for love fulfillment and good relationships, it is also highly valued for its scenic beauty throughout the seasons and its cultural assets, attracting worshippers from all over Japan. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the history and benefits of Jakusho-ji, highlights of its precincts, as well as information on its goshuin (temple stamps) and nearby attractions.

Jakusho-ji, Known for Its Blessings in Matchmaking

Jakusho-ji is said to have been founded by Gyoki during the Nara period and boasts a history of over 1,300 years as a distinguished ancient temple. The Kannon Hall is designated as a National Important Cultural Property, allowing visitors to worship in a solemn atmosphere.
It is said that “shaking hands with the chief priest can make your love come true“, and man “”y worshippers actually visit to pray for matchmaking. Currently, prayers are conducted by appointment, but it is attracting attention nationwide as a rare custom for matchmaking.

Recommended Matchmaking Spots for Girls’ Trips

Jakusho-ji is a special temple known for matchmaking, often referred to as “Izumo of the West, Jakusho-ji of the East.”
Surrounded by nature that changes with the seasons, the temple grounds are highly photogenic, making it perfect for visits with friends or on a girls’ trip.
Not only can you pray for romantic success, but also for encounters with people, friendship, and professional connections. Visiting with girlfriends can make the memories of your trip even more special.

A Souvenir of Your Trip! Jakusho-ji’s Goshuin

The goshuin at Jakusho-ji are written directly by hand, making each one unique. No two goshuin are the same, so you can feel a special connection every time you visit.
Jakusho-ji also has its own original goshuincho (stamp book), making it perfect for those new to collecting goshuin.
Be sure to check out the goshuin when you visit!

Highlights and Photo Spots at Jakusho-ji

Within the temple grounds, you can visit the Kannon Hall, essential for prayers for matchmaking, and also enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounded by nature. The approach and stone steps, which were actually used in a famous company’s commercial, look like a scene from a movie no matter where you take a picture. From the temple grounds, you can also get a panoramic view of Tendo City. Feeling the history, enjoying the beautiful nature, and taking photos are also reasons why it is popular for girls’ trips.

The Matchmaking Kannon: “Jakusho-ji Kannon Hall”

Located at the center of Jakusho-ji Temple, the Jakusho-ji Kannon Hall is a symbolic spot for praying for good relationships. It is also designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, allowing visitors to see numerous valuable cultural assets while worshiping. In this quiet and serene space, you can forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find peace of mind.

The “Enfuku Great Wind Chime” for blessings in relationships and happiness

A little walk from the Kannon Hall brings you to the “Enfuku Great Wind Chime“, which is said to bring good relationships and happiness if rung three times. You can ring it anytime, so try ringing it with your wishes in mind.

Jakusho-ji Temple Photo Spot Featured in a Commercial

Jakusho-ji Temple has charming old paths and stone steps surrounded by cedar and zelkova trees, and its beautiful scenery was even used in a commercial for the popular show “Otona no Kyūjitsu Club“. You can enjoy the different atmospheres depending on the time or season. It’s also recommended to take a leisurely walk with a camera while visiting ♪

A Hidden Gem for Autumn Foliage Known to Those in the Know

Jakusho-ji is famous as a spot for autumn leaves and is a hidden gem known to those who are in the know. The colorful maple trees along the approach and within the temple grounds are as beautiful as the autumn leaves in Kyoto. Visiting during the autumn season allows you to enjoy a serene atmosphere while praying for good relationships and taking photogenic photos.

Nearby Attractions and Gourmet Food

Around Jakusho-ji, there are also various restaurants you might want to visit along with your temple visit. At the old-style Japanese house soba restaurant “Shoujuan” and the Japanese café “Oujyuan,” you can enjoy soba and sweets made with local ingredients. Also, near the trailhead, “Nakamakko” is popular for its unique okonomiyaki and yakisoba.

Even if you can’t go to Jakusho-ji, it’s okay! You can pay your respects at Tendo Station

For those who say, ‘I don’t have time to go up the mountain,’ we recommend the ‘Mini Jakusho-ji’ located on the second floor of the JR Tendo Station terminal building ‘Parte,’ at the ‘Tendo City Tourist Information and Product Center.’ A model of the Kannon Hall is quietly displayed at the back of the product center, where you can pray for the same blessings for matchmaking as at the main hall. It’s also a great spot to visit during a break from traveling or sightseeing.

Access & Basic Information

Jakusho-ji is about a 20-minute drive from JR Tendo Station and about an 18-minute drive from Tendo IC on the Tohoku Chuo Expressway. Parking is also available, making it a popular destination for tourists traveling by car. Access from the station is also easy by taxi (around 2,000 yen one way). Since Jakusho-ji is located in the mountains, it is recommended to discuss your return trip with the taxi driver in advance.

Summary

Jakusho-ji is the first temple of the Mogami 33 Kannon Pilgrimage and is known as one of the top spots for matchmaking in the Tohoku region, often referred to as “Izumo in the West, Jakusho-ji in the East.”
It is a recommended destination not only for those praying for good relationships or wishing for success in love, but also for those who want to enjoy cultural properties and the beauty of nature.
Why not take a moment to calm your mind at the Kannon Hall, nestled in the quiet mountains, while wishing for meaningful connections?