Located in the town of Sakura, Saitama Prefecture, Maeda Kannon Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Kannon. The shrine's name 'Maeda' literally means 'horsehead,' which refers to the shrine's distinctive horse-shaped stone lamp post on its grounds. This unique feature has led to the shrine being sometimes mistakenly referred to as 'Maru no Kannon-ji.' While it is a Shinto shrine, the primary deity enshrined here is Kannon, reflecting the influence of Buddhist traditions in Japan.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kannon
- Kami enshrined
- Kannon
- Coordinates
- 35.8458323, 139.5584839
Visitor tip
Visitors can try some of the local specialties at the nearby Sakura town market, such as freshly cooked soba noodles or manju steamed buns, after paying respects to Kannon.
Cultural notes
While primarily a Shinto shrine, Maeda Kannon Shrine has strong connections to Japanese Buddhist tradition. Its architecture and decorations reflect this blend of cultures. The shrine is also notable for its beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere, making it a peaceful oasis in the bustling town of Sakura.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) and has undergone several restorations throughout its history.