Virtual Saitama City Chichibu 34 Kannon Pilgrimage #23Enzo-in Temple

 

     Enzo-in Temple was founded by Priest Ryukei (?-1405) in Nakagawa Village, Adachi County, Musashi Province.

     The village was located at the southern end of the Omiya Plateau, and didn't have many rice fields.  Its special products were Chinese yams and the extract liquid of astringent persimmons.  The liquid has insect repellent, antiseptic, and waterproof effects.  Due to its antiseptic properties, it has been used since ancient times to coat mummified bodies and to strengthen fishing nets and fishing lines used underwater.  It was also used as a base coat for painting woodwork and wooden buildings.  In addition, when it is applied to paper and dried, it becomes hard and sturdy and has waterproof properties.  It was used as a material for making fans, umbrellas, and paper clothes, and is still used today as a material for paper crafts such as dyeing patterns.

     A ginkgo tree was planted when the temple was founded.  The tree is still alive to be big and tall.  The temple enshrines Eleven-Faced Ekadasamukha.

Address: 540-1 Nakagawa, Minuma Ward, Saitama, 337-0043

Phone: 048-683-3227