
Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
1. Enoshima Shrine
An ancient Shinto shrine located on a picturesque island off the coast of Sagamihara. Known for its iconic torii gate.
- Historical Significance: Dedicated to Benzaiten, the Shinto goddess of music and entertainment.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji on clear days.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by ferry or a funicular railway from the mainland.
2. Joju-ji Temple
A beautiful Zen temple nestled in the hills of Sagamihara. Famous for its large wooden Buddha statues.
- Architectural Wonders: Features a unique, two-storied pagoda and an ancient bell tower.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a serene environment for meditation and reflection.
- Nature Surroundings: Surrounded by lush forests and hiking trails, offering opportunities for exploration.
3. Hase-dera Temple
A Buddhist temple on Enoshima Island with beautiful gardens and a large statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
- Garden Beauty: Boasts a lovely garden filled with hydrangeas and camellias.
- Cultural Experience: Offers the chance to participate in traditional tea ceremonies.
- Spiritual Journey: Includes a tunnel of 268 stone Jizo statues, symbolizing spiritual protection.
4. Kannonyama Park
A peaceful park dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy, featuring a large statue and beautiful gardens.
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of Sagamihara city and Mt. Oyama.
- Religious Significance: A popular place for local pilgrimages.
- Green Spaces: Features a variety of gardens including rose, iris, and hydrangea gardens.
5. Sagamiko Ubuyama Park
A beautiful park with a temple complex dating back to the Edo period, offering scenic views and hiking trails.
- Historical Importance: One of the few remaining Edo-period temple complexes in Japan.
- Scenic Attraction: Offers picturesque views of Sagami Bay and Mt. Fuji on clear days.
- Nature Experience: Features hiking trails for visitors to explore the surrounding hills.
6. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
A large and important Shinto shrine in Sagamihara, dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war.
- Historical Landmark: One of the oldest and most significant shrines in Kanagawa Prefecture.
- Architectural Beauty: Features a beautiful, traditional Japanese architecture.
- Local Festivals: Hosts the annual Sengen Matsuri festival, one of the three great festivals of Kamakura.
7. Hase-dera Hiking Trail
A scenic hiking trail leading to Hase-dera Temple on Enoshima Island, offering panoramic views along the way.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of Sagami Bay and Mt. Fuji.
- Physical Challenge: Includes steep slopes and stairs, providing a good workout for hikers.
- Cultural Experience: Passes by various shrines, temples, and other cultural attractions along the way.
8. Oyamadera Temple
A Buddhist temple located on Mount Oyama, famous for its stunning views and challenging hike.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Sagamihara city and the surrounding area.
- Physical Challenge: Involves a challenging hike up Mount Oyama, requiring good fitness levels.
- Religious Significance: A popular destination for Buddhist pilgrimages in the region.
9. Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine Museum
A museum located near Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, showcasing the history and traditions of the shrine.
- Historical Insight: Provides a deeper understanding of the history and significance of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
- Cultural Experience: Offers exhibits on traditional Japanese festivals, martial arts, and crafts.
- Accessibility: Located near the shrine, making it easy to visit both attractions in one trip.
10. Jufukuji Temple
A Buddhist temple known for its beautiful gardens and unique architecture, located in Sagamihara.
- Garden Beauty: Features a beautiful garden designed in the style of a traditional Japanese teahouse.
- Architectural Wonders: Boasts a unique combination of traditional and modern architectural styles.
- Spiritual Journey: Provides a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection.
11. Kannon-zaka Stairway
A scenic stairway leading up to Hase-dera Temple on Enoshima Island, lined with shops and restaurants.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers panoramic views of Sagami Bay and Mt. Fuji along the way.
- Shopping Experience: Features various shops selling local souvenirs, snacks, and trinkets.
- Physical Challenge: Includes steep slopes and stairs, providing a good workout for visitors.
12. Shinko-ji Temple
A small but beautiful temple located near the Hase-dera Temple, known for its peaceful atmosphere.
- Spiritual Journey: Provides a quiet and peaceful environment for meditation and reflection.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering tranquil views.
- Accessibility: Located near Hase-dera Temple, making it easy to visit both attractions in one trip.
13. Zaimoku-zuka Kannon Statue
A massive statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, carved into a hillside near Sagamihara.
- Scenic Beauty: Set against the backdrop of a beautiful forested hillside.
- Religious Significance: A popular destination for Buddhist pilgrimages in the region.
- Nature Experience: Located within a forested area, offering opportunities for hiking and exploration.
14. Hase-dera Bell of Benzaiten
A large bell located at Hase-dera Temple on Enoshima Island, rung to bring good fortune.
- Cultural Experience: Provides an opportunity to participate in a traditional ritual.
- Spiritual Journey: Helps visitors feel connected to the spiritual energy of Hase-dera Temple.
- Accessibility: Located near the main area of Hase-dera Temple, making it easy to visit.
15. Sagami Bay Cruise
A boat tour offering breathtaking views of Sagamihara city and the surrounding area from the sea.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of Sagami Bay, Mt. Fuji, and Enoshima Island.
- Cultural Experience: Provides an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Sagamihara from a guide.
- Leisure Activity: A relaxing way to spend a day, perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful experience.