SUGIMOTO TERA
SUMMARY:
SUGIMOTO DERA is famous for is history. It had build in 734 AD which was in NARA Era. Or 500 years before Kamakura era. This is old enough as those temples you can find in Nara city. (Unfortunately, No Deers.)
As you see from the main gate, you will easily see the history. Main hall is a thatched roof. (Made with Straw) Principal image is 11 Face KAN-NON.
Location: Nikaido (North east from
Kamakura St. 10 min by Bus. Drop off at "Sugimoto Kan-Non" or 25 min walk.
SANMON (MAIN GATE):
SAN MON is guarded by 2 guardians. (A-Uhn). The stairs you see in front is worn but covered by beautiful moss. I would believe you feel the long history.
Guardians (Ah, Uhn)
As usual as other temples, the Main gate is gurded by NI-OH statue.
One of the guardian (Uhn) on your left. Both from Kamakura period. On your right is Ah (His mouth is open saying "Ah!". On your left is Uhn (His mouth is shut saying "Hmm")
The Main Hall (From Nara Era.)
Main hall is a thatched roof. (Made with Straw) which is one of the unique feature of SUGIMOTO TERA. If you compare with other temples or shrines, you will see their roof is covered with beautifully decorated tiles. In side there is a Principal image of 11 Faced KAN-NON.
It is not allowed to take a photo inside the main hall. But you are free to visit and pray/show worship to the KAN-NON and other beautiful statue.
Other feature/findings
SUGIMOTO TERA has small, yet nicely decorated garden. As it is build on a hill, it's garden has variety of wild plants with mixture of beautiful flower trees.
If you visit during early spring, you will see beautiful "Tsubaki". (Camellia)
On your right towards main hall, thare is a grave yard. This style of tombstone is unique for Samurai. (Actually the tombstone for monks are rounded, just like monk's hair style.)
A shot from side of the main gate. The garden is well maintained but with nice mixture of wild nature.
ACCESS INFO.
