About Kegonji Temple (Suzumushi-dera)
Kegonji Temple is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple located in Arashiyama, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto City. Affectionately known as “Suzumushi-dera” (Cricket Temple), it is famous for keeping approximately 5,000 crickets year-round. The refreshing sound of crickets resonates throughout the temple grounds regardless of the season, soothing the hearts of visitors.
History and Origin
Kegonji Temple was founded in 1723 (Kyoho 8) by Hōtan Shōnin as a Kegon sect temple. Later, it converted to the Rinzai sect and remains so to this day. The cultivation of crickets began in earnest in the 1970s (Showa 50s), and by meticulously controlling temperature and humidity, they succeeded in making crickets, which normally only chirp in autumn, chirp all year round.
Points to Note When Visiting
Happy Jizo (Happy Jizo Bodhisattva)
The most distinctive feature of Kegonji Temple is the Happy Jizo wearing straw sandals. This Jizo is the only one in Japan that wears straw sandals, and it is said that if you make “only one wish,” the Jizo will walk to you in those sandals and grant your wish.
When visiting, after listening to the “Cricket Sermon” (approximately 30 minutes) by the head priest, you will receive a protective amulet, and then in front of the Happy Jizo, you will recite your address, name, and one wish. It is customary to return to offer thanks after your wish has been granted.
Cricket Sermon
Visitors enter the study hall and are served tea and sweets while listening to the head priest’s Dharma talk, the “Cricket Sermon.” The content, which conveys Buddhist teachings and wisdom for life with humor accompanied by the sound of crickets, is said to resonate with people of all ages. No reservation is required for the sermon, which is held every 30 minutes. ### Highlights of the Temple Grounds
- The Sound of Crickets: Approximately 5,000 crickets are kept in the study hall, allowing visitors to enjoy their chirping year-round.
- Bamboo Grove and Garden: A tranquil space surrounded by a bamboo grove typical of Arashiyama.
- Stone Steps and Temple Gate: A charming temple gate stands at the top of a picturesque stone staircase.
- Seasonal Flowers: Seasonal flowers adorn the temple grounds.
Benefits and Faith
Kegonji Temple is known nationwide as a temple where wishes are fulfilled. Many visitors come seeking the following blessings:
- Love and Relationship Success: Popular with couples and single women
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Many visit during life-changing moments
- Academic Success: Students pray for success in exams
- Business Prosperity: Many business owners and self-employed individuals visit
Word-of-mouth about wishes coming true has spread, and the number of repeat visitors and those referred by others continues to grow. Amulets cost 500 yen each, and are returned once the wish is granted.
Access Information
Location
31 Matsumuro-Jikecho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 615-8294
Transportation
By Train/Bus
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Hankyu Railway “Matsuo Taisha Station” (uphill)
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Hankyu Railway “Arashiyama Station”
- Approximately 3 minutes on foot from Kyoto City Bus “Kokedera/Suzumushidera” bus stop
- Approximately 60 minutes by bus from JR/Subway “Kyoto Station”
By Taxi
- Approximately 5 minutes from Hankyu “Matsuo Taisha Station” or “Arashiyama Station”
- Approximately 30 minutes from Kyoto Station
By Private Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from Meishin Expressway “Kyoto Minami IC”
- Parking: Available (paid, limited number of spaces, public transportation recommended)
Visiting Hours and Fees
- Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
- Admission Fee: Adults 500 yen, Children 300 yen (includes tea and sweets)
- Holidays: Open all year round
- Duration: Approximately 60 minutes (30 minutes for sermon + time for worship)
Notes on Visiting
- Waiting times may occur during peak hours (weekends, holidays, and spring/autumn tourist seasons)
- Reservations are not required for sermons, but advance notice is recommended for groups.
- Photography is prohibited in some areas within the study hall.
- Comfortable shoes are recommended as there are stone steps.
Summary
Kegonji Temple (Suzumushi-dera Temple) is a special temple in Kyoto, where the unique atmosphere created by the sound of crickets and the faith in the Happiness Jizo wearing straw sandals are fused together. While a tourist temple, it also has the character of a place of sincere prayer, and has received the wishes of many people. When you visit Arashiyama, be sure to stop by.
