Kita-in Temple (喜多院)
Flow of the course
About 15 min from the previous stop
About 75 min here
About this spot
A renowned Tendai Buddhist temple with strong connections to the Tokugawa shogunate. The grounds preserve the 'Hall of Lord Ieyasu's Birth' and the 'Room of Lady Kasuga's Makeup' (化粧の間), relocated from Edo Castle. The 500 Rakan Stone Buddhas in the grounds present an awe-inspiring sight, with 538 expressive stone statues lined up in rows. The classic way to enjoy them is for parents and children to compare each unique face and search for the Rakan that resembles them.
Tips
The reception for the Guest Hall and 500 Rakan closes before the temple gates close, so arrive at least one hour before closing time. The spacious grounds are perfect for family walks, with seasonal flowers and autumn foliage.
Best time to visit
Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour. Note the closing time for viewing reception.
How was this spot?
Access & map
1-20-1 Kosenba-cho, Kawagoe, Saitama 350-0036
Model course featuring this spot
Kawagoe (川越): Historic Walking Tour - Bell Tower and Shrine Visits
Saitama
Explore features & model courses
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