Ikegami Honmonji

It is where the Buddhist monk, Nichiren, passed away 700 years ago, and his worshippers still flock here to this day. The temple complex covers the entire hill with religious and cultural attractions to be found throughout.

Passing through the main gate painted by ukiyo-e artist, Utagawa Hiroshige, leads to a 96-step staircase donated by the feudal lord, Katō Kiyomasa. After climbing the steps, the entire city of Ikegami can be seen from the hilltop. The five-storey pagoda which has been designated an Important Cultural Property is the oldest in the Kanto Region. Other buildings include the bell tower and the scripture house, which serves as a repository of ancient religious texts. The numerous Buddhist towers and temples allow a glimpse at the customs and styles of ancient Japan. Several well-known figures such as Mitsuhiro Momota have been laid to rest in the cemetery. There is a souvenir shop on the complex grounds and the popular souvenir, Kuzumochi jelly cakes are sold from stalls on the road to the train station.

Thousands of worshippers visit the temple from 11 to 13 October for the famous O-Eshiki festival. As many as 300,000 visitors come to see the giant lantern procession on the 12th. The glittering lantern lights illuminating the lines of drummers and whistle players as they proceed around the temples is a sight to behold.