Ōya Temple (Oya Kannon) — Local services in Utsunomiya

Ōya Temple, or Ōya Kannon, is a beautiful and spiritual site nestled among dramatic cliffs of soft Ōya stone, just a short drive from Utsunomiya. The temple is famous for its ancient rock carvings, including the impressive eleven-faced Kannon statue, said to be Japan’s oldest stone Buddha, delicately carved directly into the cliff face over a thousand years ago.

The setting is serene and mystical — surrounded by towering stone walls, lush greenery, and the quiet sound of nature. The temple’s atmosphere feels timeless, offering a sense of calm and reverence that contrasts perfectly with the bustling city nearby. Visitors can also admire the massive Heiwa Kannon statue overlooking the site, symbolizing peace...

Serene and calming temple — definitely should drop by if you are in the area!

The stone carvings were unique and I felt very rejuvenated after spending some time here.

We went on a nice autumn day and the garden was absolutely beautiful!

Note that some areas require you to do a small hike up some stairs so make sure you wear the right shoes. ^^ But the view is worth it and the nature will give you energy.

We paid 500 yen per person entry fee but...

「🪨圧巻の石仏と白蛇の弁財天 ― 大谷寺」 “🪨Magnificent Stone Buddhas & White Snake Benzaiten — Ōya-dera, Tochigi”

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栃木県にある「大谷寺（大谷観音）」は、 弘法大師・空海が造ったと伝わる石仏群が圧巻の聖地🌱🪨

高さ約4メートルのご本尊・千手観音は、 かつては金箔が施されていたと伝わり、往時の輝きを想像すると胸が熱くなります❤️‍🔥

さらに、隣接する弁財天白蛇もユニークで可愛らしく、荘厳な石仏との対比が心を和ませてくれました🐍🤍

拝観料は500円で、無料駐車場が目の前にあるのでアクセスも便利。 静けさと迫力、そしてちょっとした遊び心が共存する特別な寺院です。

ポイント💡 ⛩️ 弘法大師・空海作と伝わる日本最古級の石仏群 ⛩️ 高さ約4mの千手観音はかつて金箔が施されていた ⛩️ 隣接する弁財天白蛇はユニークで可愛い存在 ⛩️ 拝観料500円・無料駐車場が目の前で便利 ⛩️ 厳かさとユーモアが同居する唯一無二の寺院

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Ōya-dera (Ōya Kannon) in Tochigi is home to an awe-inspiring group of stone Buddhas, said to have been created by the monk Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi).

The principal image, a 4-meter-tall Thousand-Armed Kannon, was once gilded with gold leaf — imagining its original brilliance is breathtaking.

Next to the temple stands the charming Benzaiten White Snake, a unique and playful contrast to the solemn stone statues.

Admission is 500 yen, and there’s a free parking lot right in front, making it very easy to visit.

It’s a rare place where majesty, history, and a touch of whimsy all come together.

Highlights💡 ⛩️ Stone Buddhas attributed to Kūkai, among the oldest in Japan ⛩️ 4-meter Thousand-Armed Kannon once covered in gold leaf ⛩️ Unique and charming Benzaiten White Snake nearby ⛩️ Admission: 500 yen / Free parking right in front ⛩️ Blend of solemnity and playfulness...