【Tokyo, Adachi Ward Nishiarai Daishi Sojiji Temple (Gochizan Henjoin)】 Boasting a history of about 1,200 years

📍【Tokyo, Adachi Ward Nishiarai Daishi Sojiji Temple (Gochizan Henjoin)】 Known as the "Temple of Flowers and Protection from Evil," this ancient temple linked to Kobo Daishi Kukai offers a moment of healing and prayer. ⸻ 🌟Highlights & Attractions • Legend of the Eleven-Faced Kannon and Daishi Statue carved by Kukai: In 826, Kobo Daishi performed a 21-day goma fire ritual with the Kannon statue as the principal image to save villagers suffering from an epidemic, causing a spring of pure water to gush forth. This is said to be the origin of the name "Nishiarai" . • Late Edo period two-story gate (Niomon Gate): The grand two-story gate made entirely of zelkova wood is imposing. It features carvings of cats, dragons, and the twelve zodiac signs, and is registered as a cultural property of Adachi Ward . • Peony Garden & Seasonal Flowers: The spring peonies are famed as "Hase-dera in the west, Nishiarai in the east," with 100 varieties and 2,500 plants blooming profusely. Wisteria, plum, cherry blossoms, hydrangea, and autumn leaves also color the precincts . ⸻ 🕓Visiting & Events Information • Visiting hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last admission at 4:20 PM)  • Free admission to the precincts; goma fire rituals and sutra copying are paid services • On the 21st of every month, the anniversary of Kobo Daishi, stalls line up and many worshippers gather, creating a lively atmosphere  • Numerous annual events: Daruma memorial service on Setsubun (2/3), Flower Festival, Wind Chime Festival (early July), Summer Festival, Hokusai Memorial (October), Year-end Daishi Ceremony (12/21), and more  ⸻ 🚇Access • Train: About a 1-minute walk from Daishi-mae Station on the Tobu Daishi Line (about 20 minutes on foot from Nishiarai Daishi Nishi Station on the Nippori-Toneri Liner)  • Car: No parking available on site → Nearby coin-operated parking lots are recommended ⸻ 🧭Travel Tips • Early morning or weekday mornings are the best times: Less crowded, allowing for a peaceful visit • Visit during peak flower seasons: Peonies peak from early to mid-April; wisteria blooms around late April  • Local specialties & souvenirs: Popular treats along the approach include kusa dango (mugwort rice dumplings) and cha soba (green tea noodles) from Nakadaya and Shimizuya, as well as imagawayaki (filled pancakes)  • Mikage Hall & Kaji Water Well: Experience the legend of Kobo Daishi and feel the breath of ancient times ⸻ 💫Recommended Stay Style 1. Arrive early morning at Daishi-mae Station → Quietly stroll through the precincts 2. Pray at the Niomon Gate and Main Hall & receive a goshuin (temple stamp) 3. If in flower season, visit the peony garden and wisteria trellis 4. Take a break with kusa dango and cha soba lunch along the approach 5. Participate in events like the Wind Chime Festival (summer) or Daruma Memorial Service (winter) to make your trip even more special ⸻ 🏮Counted among the three great Daishi temples of the Kanto region, Nishiarai Daishi supports those wishing for "protection from evil and good fortune," offering a quiet time to reflect on your journey surrounded by "flowers and history." ⸻ #AdachiWardTravel #PeonySpot #ProtectionDaishi #TempleOfFlowers