Suzumushi-dera (Kegonji)

Suzumushi-dera, located in Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto City, is a Rinzai-sect temple whose formal name is Kegonji. True to its name (meaning "bell cricket temple"), it is known for the cool chirping of bell crickets echoing through the main hall throughout the year. Most famous of all is the "Happiness Jizo," said to grant a single wish. This Jizo wears straw sandals, and is reputed to walk to meet the person who prays, making it a power spot.

Highlights

- Happiness Jizo: The only Jizo in Japan wearing straw sandals. If you tell it your address and name and make just one wish, it is said to walk over to grant your wish. - Chirping of Bell Crickets: In the main hall, thousands of bell crickets are kept regardless of the season, and you can hear the priest's enjoyable "bell cricket sermon" while wrapped in their cool chirping. - View from the Gate: Set on a hill, the view looking down over the streets of Kyoto is also an appeal.

Enjoying the Seasons

The greatest feature is enjoying the chirping of bell crickets all year, but the grounds are especially beautifully colored during the cherry blossoms of spring and the foliage of autumn. On weekends and in the tourist season, lines may form to hear the sermon, so visiting with time to spare is recommended.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 31 Matsumuro-jigecho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - Access: About a 15-minute walk from Kamikatsura Station on the Hankyu line, or about a 3-minute walk from the "Kokedera, Suzumushi-dera" Kyoto bus stop - Hours: Daytime (with set sermon times) - Admission: Paid (includes tea and sweets)

A Quick Tip

The key to wishing to the Happiness Jizo is not to be greedy but to narrow it down to just one wish. Tell it your address and name in your heart before making your wish. It is said that if you keep the special amulet, the Jizo will come to your home. Touring it together with the adjacent moss temple (Saihoji) is also recommended.