Karamatsu Kannon (Karamatsuyama Gokokuji) is one of the 33 Kannon temples in Shakado, Yamagata City.

It has a strict atmosphere, a historical appearance, and a wonderful view, and you can enjoy a spectacular view if you go to the main hall.

It also has a hidden charm of being adjacent to a free campsite that can be used even in winter! Why not visit this spot where you can enjoy history and nature at the same time?

A historical appearance and a strictness that you can feel

I would like to introduce Karamatsu Kannon Hall (Karamatsuyama Gokokuji), a slightly rare spot that is a “winter charm” in Yamagata Prefecture.

Of course, those who are familiar with it may think, “What! There in this winter? Isn’t it cold!?”, but isn’t it a chance to enjoy the unique atmosphere and spectacular view of winter?

From the parking lot, cross the bridge and climb the gentle mountain path, and at the top of the stairs at the end is Karamatsu Kannon (Karamatsuyama Gokokuji).
You can enjoy a wonderful interior view and a spectacular view from the hall.

For safety, wire mesh has been installed inside the hall to prevent people from falling.
Though you’ll be looking through the mesh, you can still enjoy the spectacular view that stretches out to the distant mountains.

[Mogami Thirty-three Kannon Temples, No. 5] A magnificent view! What is Karamatsu Kannon?

Karamatsu Kannon enshrines the Bodhisattva Kannon, said to have been created by Kobo Daishi Kukai, as its principal image, and the cliff-hanging hall, modeled after Kiyomizu-dera, was constructed in 1661. The current building was rebuilt during the Showa period.
When you cross the bridge from the parking lot, you will come to the place for offering sutras on your left, where you can also receive a temple seal.

Some useful information!

A huge pot roared in the parking lot, making quite an impact.
This pot was the first to be used at the “Japan’s No. 1 Imoni Festival,” which has been held in Yamagata since 1989 with the aim of spreading taro roots, a part of Yamagata’s food culture, throughout the country. It is affectionately known as Nabetaro.
By the way, it seems that the third generation Nabetaro is currently in charge.

It’s a 5-minute walk across a quaint bridge!

We use the red bridge that spans from the parking lot to head to the shore where the shrine is located, and as expected at this time of year there is a lot of snow piled up.
However, there are traces of people having passed by and a path has been created.
Once on the shore, the path curves to the right immediately and a stone torii gate comes into view.
The accumulated snow creates an even more picturesque landscape.

As you proceed from the torii gate, you will see a Jizo statue on your left.

• Enmei Jizo
• Child Jizo
• Jizo Bodhisattva to ward off drowning

There are also water god towers and Koshin towers.

Camp in summer! And in winter too?

There is a free camping area right next to the parking lot of Karamatsu Kannon, so campers can enjoy camping all year round, and at the time of our visit we saw several people enjoying camping in the snow.
There are toilets and water sources, and all the facilities necessary for campers are available.
However, there are private houses nearby, so please be considerate and do not cause any trouble.

Fortunately, the toilets seem to be managed so that they can be used during the winter.
Also, the water area cannot be used during the winter due to the risk of freezing.

Summary

What did you think?
We have introduced you to Karamatsu Kannon in winter and other attractive spots adjacent to it.
In winter, there is a lot of snow and the ground is slippery, so please be careful if you are visiting with children or just to pray.
This is a spot where you can refresh your mind while enjoying the outdoors, praying, and the spectacular views.
Please visit Karamatsu Kannon (Karamatsuyama Gokokuji) at 502 Kami-Karamatsu, Shakado, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, and experience the charms of winter.