Virtual Musashi 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #20 Hoto-ji Temple

 

     Hoto-ji Temple, which enshrines a statue of Arya Avalokitesvara, who is the human-figure prototype of the other 6 metamorphoses, was founded by Priest Yukei (?-1534).  Later, the god of Hisaizu Shrine, which is now called Kami-Hisaizu Shrine, was invited to the temple.  The god is now enshrined in Shimo-Hisaizu Shrine, which is located next to the temple.  Presumably, the population of on a natural levee, where Tsurugasone Village was located, increased, the village was divided into 2, and a new temple and a new shrine were founded in a newer village.  The god of Hisaizu Shrine was believed to be one of "kunitsukami" (gods of the earth or gods of country builders).  Ancient people might have been filled with awe at seeing new land being formed in the estuary of the Old Tone River.

     The existence of the Tsurugasone Checkpoint was recorded in 1387, and many itabi, which were dated around the 1310's, have been excavated in the area.  Some samurai might have ruled the area to impose taxes on river transportation.

Address: 1819 Tsurugasone, Yashio, Saitama 340-0802

Phone: 048-996-4473