World Peace Kannon Statue — Attraction in Yamanouchi

This Buddhist temple has seen better days but was a lovely find in the hills above the ryokan neighborhood. We sadly visited during November and so the cherry blossom trees were not in bloom but as you can see form other people's pictures it would make for quite the sight to come up the temple stairs.

Inside the staff will take you on a tour that includes beating a drum that drives away evil spirits as well as a series of bowls you ring in progressive order until you come to the main temple in the base of the statue.

The staff were exuberant and did not lot the language barrier deter them from taking you along...

This is actually a replica of the original statue that stood here. During World War II, the original statue was melted down, and the metal was used to make bullets and weapons. This happened to lots of bronze statues throughout Japan during that time. It was...

If you have time after visiting the monkey park, I suggest taking a stroll to see the grounds. You can avoid the steps by taking a left at the end of the block and enjoy the stroll up next to an...