Discover 4 Must-Visit Powerful and Miraculous Places in Fukushima!

Discover the ancient spiritual energy of Fukushima, where time-honored temples and shrines have been revered for centuries. Journey to four sacred sites: the awe-inspiring Enmyoin Temple, known for its miraculous powers; the majestic Nakano Fudo-son, one of Japan's most sacred Buddhist temples; the romantic Shirasu Amidadō, famous for its love blessings; and the grand Izusanomi Shrine, the spiritual heart of Aizu.

1. Shiramizu Amidado, a national treasure-class power spot with a magnificent Pure Land garden

Shiramizu Amidado, located within the grounds of Ganjoji Temple in Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, is a building built in the Heian period. It is the only building in Fukushima Prefecture designated as a national treasure. It was built by Tokuhime, the daughter of Fujiwara no Kiyohira, to commemorate the death of her husband.

However, Shiramizu Amidado is renowned for more than just its architectural beauty. The temple boasts a magnificent Pure Land-style garden that was designed to replicate the paradise of the Pure Land, as envisioned in Buddhist cosmology. The garden features intricate stonework within a pond, a carefully arranged gravel shore, and a graceful bridge adorned with vermilion railings. Lotus flowers bloom in the pond during the summer, while autumn brings a breathtaking display of autumn foliage illuminated by soft lights.

Built as a testament to enduring love, this temple has become a renowned power spot for those seeking blessings in matters of the heart. Shirasu Amidadō offers a unique opportunity to experience both the spiritual and aesthetic wonders of Japan's cultural heritage.

2. Isasumi Shrine: A Power Spot for Protection and Longevity, the Guardian Deity of Aizu

Located in Aizumisato Town, Fukushima Prefecture, Isasumi Shrine is the revered guardian deity of the Aizu region. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, this shrine is a treasure trove of spiritual significance.

The shrine is dedicated to four primary deities: Izanagi-no-mikoto, Izanami-no-mikoto, Ohiko-no-mikoto, and Takenukanawakeno-mikoto. Additionally, Shiotuchi-no-oji and Hachiman-Ookami are enshrined as secondary deities, further enhancing the shrine's spiritual power. Visitors seek blessings from these deities for a wide range of benefits, including prosperity, bountiful harvests, protection from misfortune, and longevity.

Isasumi Shrine is not only a place of spiritual significance but also a popular tourist destination. Its impressive gate and the renowned Usuzumi Sakura (Diluted-Ink Cherry), one of the Aizu Five Cherry Trees, are notable attractions.

The shrine's "Iris Garden" is particularly famous, showcasing approximately 150 varieties and 100,000 iris plants, making it one of the largest collections in the Tohoku region. The annual Iris Festival, held from mid to early July, is a popular event during the iris blooming season.

Moreover, the Tanabata Prayer Festival, celebrated from late July to late August, features around 1,000 wind chimes and bamboo decorations, creating a magical atmosphere with enchanting illuminations. Visitors are invited to experience the serene beauty of the shrine at night, bathed in soft light.

3. Nakano Fudo-son: A Sacred Power Spot Renowned for Disaster Prevention

Located in Nakano, Iizaka-machi, Fukushima City, Nakano Fudo-son is a Sōtō school temple founded in 1179 by Eimei Dōjin, who was guided to this site by a lone deer. As one of Japan’s Three Great Fudo-son temples, it is renowned for its divine powers and attracts a vast number of worshippers, especially during New Year’s.

It enshrines three Fudo Myo-o statues: "Yakuyoke Fudo Myo-o" in the main hall, "Eye-guarding Fudo Myo-o" in the prayer hall, and "Sangetsu Fudo Myo-o" in the cave in the inner sanctuary. It is said to be one of the three Fudo Myo-o statues in Japan. These three statues are believed to offer protection against various misfortunes.

Beyond the main hall, Nakano Fudo-son offers a variety of attractions, including the Great Sun Hall, built to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the temple's founding; the inner sanctuary cave; the Thorn-Removing Jizo statue; the Wish-Granting Well; the prayer hall; and the Fudo Waterfall.

4. Enmyoin Temple: A Miraculous Power Spot for Fulfilling Five Wishes

Located in Minamisōma City, Fukushima Prefecture, Enmyoin Temple is a sacred place renowned for its power to bring good fortune. Despite its proximity to the sea, this temple miraculously survived the devastating tsunami triggered by the 3.11 earthquake, as the waves inexplicably stopped at its gates. This extraordinary event has solidified Enmyoin's reputation as one of Fukushima's most powerful spiritual sites.

Enmyoin is particularly popular for its ability to grant five specific wishes: health, winning, good matches, prosperity, and great purification. It is believed that those who have all their wishes fulfilled at this temple will become virtually invincible. The temple's cheerful chief priest often delivers inspiring sermons, making a visit to listen to his teachings a rewarding experience.

◎Summary

Fukushima Prefecture is home to numerous ancient temples and shrines, each believed to possess spiritual power and offer various blessings. However, power spots are not limited to temples and shrines alone.

While not included in this introduction, Aizu Wakamatsu Castle, known as Tsuruga Castle, is a symbol of Fukushima Prefecture and is also considered a power spot. Additionally, exploring the natural power spots of the region can be equally rewarding. Some notable examples include Lake Inawashiro, associated with the legendary monk Kobo Daishi; Mount Bandai, one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains; Rengetsu Falls, where ascetics practiced their austerities; and Issaikyozan, said to be the burial site of the entire Buddhist sutra. Taking a leisurely trip around Fukushima to visit these places is highly recommended.