A Complete Guide to Saifuku-ji Temple (Kikugawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture), a Temple for Fertility and Safe Childbirth
Saifuku-ji Temple, located in Yoshizawa, Kikugawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple known nationwide for its blessings of fertility, safe childbirth, and matchmaking. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, in the rich natural environment of Enshu, many worshippers have prayed for the fulfillment of their wishes since ancient times. This article provides a detailed explanation of everything you need to know before visiting Saifuku-ji Temple, including its history, principal image, special prayer methods, goshuin (temple stamp) information, and access methods.
What is Saifuku-ji Temple? | History and Overview
Saifuku-ji Temple is one of approximately 15,000 Soto Zen temples nationwide, and has a long history as a center of local faith. Located in the tranquil countryside of Enshu, it is a sacred site where you can feel the kindness of the people nurtured by the rich natural environment and the profound depth of faith inherited from distant ancestors.
The History of Kikugawa Kannon Saifuku-ji Temple
Saifuku-ji Temple has a long history, with records showing that the temple buildings were rebuilt in 1685 (Jokyo 2). During this reconstruction, a Buddhist sculptor from the temple’s congregation donated the current principal image, the Koyasu Kannon Bodhisattva, as an expression of gratitude for the Buddha’s blessings. Since then, it has attracted many worshippers from beyond the region as a sacred site for safe childbirth, child-rearing, and the fulfillment of various wishes.
Kikugawa City in Shizuoka Prefecture is known as a tea-producing region famous for Yabukita tea, and Saifuku-ji Temple is located on its eastern side. The temple grounds, harmoniously integrated with the surrounding natural environment, provide a special space that brings tranquility and peace to visitors.
Principal Image | Benefits of Koyasu Kannon Bodhisattva
The principal image of Saifuku-ji Temple is the “Koyasu Kannon Bodhisattva.” This Kannon is depicted in a gentle form holding a baby and is deeply revered as a guardian deity for safe childbirth and child-rearing.
Characteristics of the Koyasu Kannon Bodhisattva
The principal image, the Koyasu Kannon Bodhisattva, is a wooden seated statue, 8.5 inches (main body), encased in gold. It depicts the Bodhisattva holding a baby in its left hand and a lotus flower in its right. This hidden Buddha has been a source of comfort for many women and families, symbolizing maternal love and compassion.
Its blessings are said to be “safe childbirth, child-rearing, and the fulfillment of all wishes.” It attracts a wide range of visitors, including pregnant women, those hoping to conceive, and those already raising children.
Prayer for Childbearing | Kodama Jizo Bodhisattva and the Mara Jizo Cave
One of the most distinctive features of Seifuku-ji Temple is the “Mara Jizo Cave,” which enshrines the “Kodama Mara Jizo Bodhisattva.” This mystical space is a special place for many visitors to pray for the blessing of children.
Characteristics of the Mara Jizo Cave
The Mara Jizo Cave is a cave-like hall located on the west side of the main hall, enshrining multiple Buddhas that grant various blessings. At its center is the “Child-Granting Mara Jizo Bodhisattva,” a phallic-shaped statue approximately 1 meter long.
This uniquely shaped Jizo Bodhisattva has been worshipped since ancient times as a symbol of the source of life and the prosperity of descendants. Inside the cave, in addition to the Child-Granting Mara Jizo, a total of six different Buddha statues and Jizo are enshrined, each believed to offer different blessings.
The cave is dimly lit and enveloped in a mystical atmosphere. Many visitors report that quietly offering prayers there brings peace of mind and a feeling that their wishes reach heaven.
Etiquette for Praying for Children
When visiting Saifuku-ji Temple to pray for children, the general procedure is to first pray to the Child-Granting Kannon Bodhisattva in the main hall, and then to the Child-Granting Mara Jizo Bodhisattva in the Mara Jizo Cave. Inside the cave, quietly clasp your hands together and sincerely offer your prayers.
During your prayer, you may receive amulets or talismans, which you can take home and use as objects of daily prayer.
Prayer for Safe Childbirth | Prayer on the Day of the Dog and the Bottomless Drawstring Bag
Seifuku-ji Temple accepts prayers for safe childbirth at any time, and the prayer on the Day of the Dog is particularly popular. Because dogs are prolific breeders and have easy deliveries, the custom of praying for safe childbirth on the Day of the Dog has continued since ancient times.
Offering of the Bottomless Drawstring Bag
Seifuku-ji Temple has a unique custom for prayers for safe childbirth that is not found at other temples. It involves offering a “bottomless drawstring bag.”
This bottomless drawstring bag embodies the wish that “the baby will be born smoothly (as if the bottom were to fall out).” This unique custom is a tradition unique to Seifuku-ji Temple and is cherished by many pregnant women and their families.
Flow of Prayer for Safe Childbirth
Those wishing to pray for safe childbirth are advised to make a reservation by phone in advance. Prayers are performed continuously during business hours (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM), and you can receive a respectful prayer from the head priest.
After the prayer, you will be given a safe childbirth amulet and a maternity belt. By wearing these, you will feel the protection of Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) in your daily life.
Prayer for Matchmaking | For Those Seeking Good Relationships
Seifuku-ji Temple is known not only for blessings related to fertility and safe childbirth, but also for its blessings related to matchmaking. Many people visit to pray for good relationships, deepen their bond with their partner, and more.
Among the Buddhas enshrined in the Mara Jizo Cave, some are said to have the power to bring good relationships, and there is a constant stream of visitors praying for success in love and marital harmony.
Information on Goshuin (Temple Seals) and Goshuincho (Seal Books)
Saifuku-ji Temple offers several types of goshuin, making it a popular spot for goshuin pilgrims.
Special Embroidered Goshuin
Particularly noteworthy is the goshuin featuring a special embroidery of the Mara Jizo and crystal twin orbs. This special goshuin is available in the Jizo cave on the west side of the main hall.
Unlike regular ink-painted goshuin, the embroidered goshuin features a three-dimensional and vividly colored design. The Mara Jizo and crystal twin orbs, symbols of Saifuku-ji Temple, are beautifully depicted, and many visitors cherish them as a memento of their visit.
Types and Distribution Locations of Goshuin
In addition to regular goshuin, Saifuku-ji Temple sometimes offers seasonal goshuin and goshuin commemorating special events. Goshuin can be obtained in the main hall or the Jizo cave, but the distribution location may vary depending on the time of year and circumstances, so it is recommended to check during your visit.
Original goshuincho (stamp books) are available, and the beautiful goshuincho featuring the design of Saifuku-ji Temple are popular as the first goshuincho for those starting their goshuin pilgrimage.
Various Prayers, Including Shrine Visits for Newborns and Shichi-Go-San
Saifuku-ji Temple accepts prayers for safe childbirth and fertility, as well as various prayers related to a child’s growth, such as shrine visits for newborns, Shichi-Go-San, and first shrine visits.
Shrine Visit for Newborns
The shrine visit for newborns, performed around one month after birth, is an important event to pray for the healthy growth of the baby. At Saifuku-ji Temple, prayers are performed carefully under the protection of the Bodhisattva of Childbirth and Kannon.
Shichi-Go-San
Many families visit Saifuku-ji Temple for Shichi-Go-San prayers, which are performed at the milestones of 3, 5, and 7 years old. At Saifuku-ji Temple, known as the Kannon of Child-Rearing, you can pray for the healthy growth and happiness of your child.
Visiting Hours and Temple Information
Seifuku-ji Temple is open year-round and is known as a hidden gem where you can freely visit.
Basic Information
- Address: 523 Yoshizawa, Kikugawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture
- Phone Number: 0537-35-3923
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Days: Open year-round
- Sect: Soto Zen
Visiting Etiquette
When visiting, please enter the temple grounds quietly and with a calm mind. After visiting the main hall, when visiting the Mara Jizo Cave, please be careful of your footing as the cave is dimly lit.
Photography is generally permitted, but please be considerate of other visitors and refrain from using flash inside the cave and main hall.
Access | How to Get to Saifuku-ji Temple
Saifuku-ji Temple is located in the eastern part of Kikugawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, and is accessible by both car and public transport.
Access by Car
From Nagoya
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Tomei Expressway “Kikugawa Interchange”
From Tokyo
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Tomei Expressway “Makinohara Interchange”
Both interchanges are close, and it is convenient to enter “Saifuku-ji Kikugawa City” or the phone number “0537-35-3923” into your car navigation system.
Access by Public Transport
Nearest Station: JR Tokaido Line “Kikugawa Station”
- Approximately 5 minutes by car from Kikugawa Station
- Taking a taxi from Kikugawa Station is convenient
- If taking the bus, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance as the number of buses is limited.
Parking Information
Saifuku-ji Temple has a parking lot for visitors. There is ample parking space for regular cars, and it is free of charge. However, the parking lot may be full during peak times such as the Day of the Dog, weekends, and the New Year, so it is recommended to visit with plenty of time to spare.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Seifuku-ji Temple, you can also enjoy other tourist attractions around Kikugawa City.
Kikugawa, the Tea Village
Kikugawa City is a famous tea-producing area known as the birthplace of “Yabukita tea.” Tea plantations spread throughout the surrounding area, offering beautiful scenery. You can purchase fresh tea at local tea shops, and there are also facilities where you can experience tea picking.
Nature of Enshu
The area around Seifuku-ji Temple is rich in nature, allowing you to enjoy the scenery of each season. Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn leaves in fall – each season presents a different face.
Visitor Testimonials | Words of Joy
Many visitors from all over Japan come to Seifuku-ji Temple, and we have received many joyful testimonials from those whose wishes have been granted.
Many people have expressed their gratitude, with comments such as, “I was worried because I couldn’t have children, but after praying at Saifuku-ji Temple, I was able to conceive safely,” “I visited to pray for a safe delivery, and I had a very smooth birth and was blessed with a healthy baby,” and “I visited to pray for a good match, and I was able to meet a wonderful partner.”
These voices speak to the effectiveness of Saifuku-ji Temple and will be a great encouragement to those considering visiting.
Latest Information and Announcements
Saifuku-ji Temple posts various latest information, including seasonal events, special prayers, and new designs for its Goshuin (temple stamps), on its official website and social media.
Checking the official website before your visit will allow you to confirm the dates of special events and information on the distribution of limited-edition Goshuin. Information on crowd conditions and parking availability is also updated regularly, so we recommend checking in advance for a smooth visit.
Message from the Chief Priest
The chief priest of Saifuku-ji Temple warmly welcomes all visitors and performs prayers tailored to each individual’s wishes. Under the motto, “Even the smallest wish, if prayed for sincerely, will surely reach the Buddha,” this temple has become a source of spiritual support for many visitors.
Those wishing for prayers or consultations are welcome to speak to the staff; they will be courteously attended to.
Summary | Fulfilling Your Wishes at Saifuku-ji Temple
Saifuku-ji Temple in Kikugawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a highly revered temple known for its blessings related to fertility, safe childbirth, and matchmaking. It boasts two powerful principal deities, Koyasu Kannon Bodhisattva and Kodama Mara Jizo Bodhisattva, the mystical Mara Jizo Cave, the unique custom of using bottomless drawstring bags for safe childbirth prayers, and beautiful embroidered goshuin (temple stamps). Saifuku-ji Temple offers many unique attractions.
Located in a quiet environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Saifuku-ji Temple provides a peaceful place to offer prayers. It is a warm and welcoming temple open to all, from those hoping for children, those praying for safe childbirth, those seeking good relationships, and those wishing for the healthy growth of their already blessed children.
Located near an interchange on the Tomei Expressway, it’s easily accessible, making it convenient for visitors from afar. When you visit Shizuoka Prefecture, be sure to stop by Seifuku-ji Temple and experience the blessings of Kannon and Jizo.
Your heartfelt wishes will surely reach the Buddha.
