Jionji Temple 慈恩寺

Ancient and monumental temple on a pilgrim route

Jionji, a Tendai sect temple in Saitama City's Iwatsuki Ward is one of the stops on the 33 temple Bando Sanjusankasho pilgrimage route. It's a bit out of the way, but well worth the visit whether you're a pilgrim or not. The temple complex was established in 824 by the Buddhist sage Ennin has a large gate, a monumental main hall, and a pagoda dedicated to Genjo Sanzo, the author of "A Journey to the West". It's an active temple with priests writing goshuin red seals in a pavilion in front of the temple and seasonal displays. In November, you can catch a chrysanthemum exhibition. It's also a popular spot for hatsumode.