“What kind of blessings can I receive at Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo in Ibaraki?”
“I’ve heard it is famous for the Thirteen-Year-Old Visit and warding off evil, but I want to check the specific highlights and access methods beforehand.”
Are you thinking about this as you plan your outing or prepare for a significant life event?
To give you the conclusion first, Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo is a highly distinguished temple counted as one of “Japan’s Three Great Kokuzo Bodhisattvas.” It attracts many worshippers as a powerful spiritual spot for bestowing wisdom and improving luck.
In this article, we will thoroughly explain everything you need to know before visiting Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo, including its history and characteristics, the must-see highlights within the temple grounds, and detailed access methods to ensure you arrive without getting lost.
By reading this article, you will fully understand the charm of Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo and be able to plan a memorable and fulfilling visit. Please read through to the end.
- What is Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo? History and Features
- Blessings Await! What You Can Pray for at Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo
- Explore the Grounds! Must-See Highlights
- Proof of Your Visit! Goshuin and Amulet Information
- Access to Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo and Parking Information
- Nearby Spots to Enjoy Along with Your Visit
- Summary
- A Message from the Guide
What is Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo? History and Features
Located in Tokai Village, Ibaraki Prefecture, Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo is a famous temple affectionately known by locals as “Muramatsu’s Kokuzo-san.” It attracts many visitors from both inside and outside the prefecture. First, let us look in detail at its deep history and the principal image that is the object of worship.
History Since the Heian Period and “Japan’s Three Great Kokuzo”
The history of Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo is ancient, said to have been founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai) in the early Heian period, specifically in the year 807 AD (Daido 2). Established by the imperial order of Emperor Heizei, this temple has served as a spiritual anchor for many people throughout its long history.
Of particular note is that it is counted as one of “Japan’s Three Great Kokuzo Bodhisattvas,” alongside temples at Mt. Asama in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, and Yanaizu in Yanaizu Town, Fukushima Prefecture. This indicates its high status as a sacred place enshrining Japan’s representative Kokuzo Bodhisattva, which is why it gathers deep faith not only from within Ibaraki Prefecture but from the entire Kanto region.
About the Principal Image “Kokuzo Bosatsu”
The principal image enshrined in the main hall is “Kokuzo Bosatsu” (Akasagarbha Bodhisattva). This Buddhist statue, said to have been carved by Kobo Daishi himself, is believed to possess infinite wisdom and a compassionate heart as vast as the universe.
“Kokuzo” refers to an expanse like the great sky that nothing can obstruct, and “Zo” refers to a storehouse that holds treasures. In other words, Kokuzo Bosatsu stores inexhaustible fortune and wisdom, and is a Buddha who bestows these upon people according to their wishes. This power, full of compassion, supports not only students wishing for academic success and memory improvement but all people seeking guidance in life.
Blessings Await! What You Can Pray for at Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo
Visitors to Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo often come with specific wishes. Here, we will explain the particularly famous blessings associated with the temple.
The Famous “Thirteen-Year-Old Visit” (Jusan-Mairi) for Wisdom
When talking about Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo, the “Thirteen-Year-Old Visit” (Jusan-Mairi) is essential. This is a traditional event where boys and girls who have turned 13 years old (by traditional age reckoning) visit to receive fortune and wisdom from Kokuzo Bosatsu.
In the past, it was held on March 13th of the lunar calendar, but nowadays, it is bustling with many families mainly during the spring break period from late March to early April. By praying for academic achievement and physical health during this important period of stepping up to adulthood, it is said that children are granted the power to grow into upstanding adults. There is also a famous tradition that one must not look back when leaving after worship.
Warding Off Evil, Good Luck, and Career Success
In addition to the Thirteen-Year-Old Visit, the blessings for warding off evil and opening up luck are also powerful. The infinite power of Kokuzo Bosatsu is believed to help drive away disasters and open up one’s fortune.
Notably, there is a history that Tokugawa Ieyasu once worshipped at Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo and protected it generously. Because it is a temple cherished by a unifier of Japan, many business people and executives visit to wish for career advancement and prosperity in business. It is relied upon as a guardian deity for turning points in life, such as exorcising bad luck during critical years (Yakudoshi) and directional protection when starting something new.
Explore the Grounds! Must-See Highlights
The spacious grounds are dotted with historical buildings and beautiful scenery. When visiting, be sure to walk to the following spots as well.
The “Nio-mon Gate” (Prefectural Cultural Property)
Proceeding along the approach, the first thing that comes into view is the majestic “Nio-mon Gate.” This gate is registered as a designated cultural property of Ibaraki Prefecture and is a wooden structure that makes you feel the weight of history. Powerful Nio statues (Vajra muscular guardians) are enshrined on the left and right, casting sharp glares as guardians protecting the sanctuary. When passing through the gate, please pay attention to their impressive figures and the detailed carvings.
The Majestic “Main Hall” (Hondo)
Beyond the Nio-mon Gate sits the majestic “Main Hall.” The current hall was rebuilt in the Taisho era and features a copper-tiled roof and heavy timber framing. When you enter the hall, you will be enveloped in a solemn atmosphere and feel your mind quiet down. Here, please join your hands quietly and convey your daily gratitude and wishes to the principal image, Kokuzo Bosatsu. The interior decorations, such as the ceiling paintings and transom carvings, are also magnificent.
The Beautiful “Three-Story Pagoda”
The “Three-Story Pagoda” is loved as a symbolic presence of the grounds. The vermilion tower shining amidst the surrounding lush greenery is very beautiful and is also popular as a photo spot. Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season, you can enjoy magnificent scenery that harmonizes with nature across the four seasons. Since it shows different expressions depending on the angle you look up from, it is recommended to search for the best shot while strolling through the grounds.
The Path to the Inner Sanctuary and Daijingu
After finishing your prayers at the main hall, let’s proceed further back. From behind the main hall, a path extends leading to the “Inner Sanctuary” (Okunoin) and the adjacent “Daijingu.” This area is wrapped in even deeper silence, allowing you to experience the sensation of walking in a sacred forest. By walking slowly while feeling the breath of nature, you will be able to refresh both your mind and body.
Proof of Your Visit! Goshuin and Amulet Information
Many people likely want to receive a Goshuin (shrine/temple seal) or an amulet as a commemoration of their visit. Here, we introduce information regarding these items.
Types of Goshuin and Where to Get Them
At Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo, you can receive Goshuin with powerful brushwork. In addition to the regular Goshuin of the principal image, limited-edition Goshuin may be prepared depending on the season or event. Original Goshuin books are also distributed and are popular as a commemoration of the Thirteen-Year-Old Visit or as proof of worship. Reception is handled at the conferment office within the grounds, so please stop by after praying. Since there may be waiting times during busy periods, it is safe to visit with plenty of time.
Popular Amulets and Items
At the conferment office, a wide variety of amulets related to the blessings of Kokuzo Bosatsu are lined up. Among them, the most popular are the “Wisdom Amulet” (Chie-mamori) and the “Academic Success Amulet.” They are also appreciated as gifts for students preparing for exams or those taking certification tests. In addition, you can choose items tailored to various wishes, such as amulets for warding off evil, traffic safety, and health and longevity.
Access to Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo and Parking Information
Getting to Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo is relatively smooth whether by car or public transportation. Let’s check the route in advance.
By Train and Bus
If using public transportation, the nearest station is “Tokai Station” on the JR Joban Line. From the station, using a taxi is convenient, and the travel time is about 10 to 15 minutes. Also, if using a bus from Tokai Station, check the Ibaraki Kotsu bus route and get off at the nearest bus stop. Since the number of buses may be limited, we recommend checking the timetable in advance.
By Car and Nearest Interchange
When accessing by car, the nearest interchanges are the Joban Expressway “Tokai Smart IC” or “Hitachi-Minami Ota IC.” You will arrive in about 10 minutes from Tokai Smart IC and about 15 to 20 minutes from Hitachi-Minami Ota IC. Since it is located along National Route 245, you should be able to arrive without getting lost if you use a navigation system. Because it is an area with many nuclear-related facilities, road signs are also well-maintained.
Parking Location and Fees
Parking for worshippers is fully equipped right near the grounds. There is a large parking lot that can be used for free during normal times, capable of accommodating hundreds of cars. However, during the New Year’s visit (Hatsumode), the Thirteen-Year-Old Visit season, or days with special events, it becomes very crowded, so temporary parking lots may be set up in the surrounding area. When visiting by car during periods when congestion is expected, please follow the instructions of the guiding staff to park.
Nearby Spots to Enjoy Along with Your Visit
If you are visiting Tokai Village, why not enjoy the surrounding gourmet food and sightseeing spots as well?
Recommended Lunch and Gourmet
Tokai Village and the surrounding area are known as one of the leading production areas for “sweet potatoes” in Japan. In particular, “dried sweet potato” (Hoshi-imo) is a specialty product, and there are many direct sales depots and souvenir shops dotted around. It is a standard practice to buy sweet and delicious dried sweet potatoes as souvenirs on the way home from worship. Also, there are soba noodle shops using local ingredients and cafes with a relaxed atmosphere nearby, so you will not have trouble finding lunch or a place to rest.
Nearby Sightseeing Spots
“Muramatsu Daijingu” is located adjacent to Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo. This is a historic shrine also called “Ibaraki’s Ise,” and it is recommended to visit it together with the temple.
Additionally, if you move a little by car, there are spots such as “Akogigaura Park,” known as a famous place for cherry blossoms, and the “AtomWorld” (Science Museum) where you can learn about science. The area is full of spots that are easy to incorporate into a drive course for families or friends.
Summary
Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo is a famous temple in Ibaraki Prefecture boasting a long history and high status as one of Japan’s Three Great Kokuzo Bodhisattvas. This place, visited by many people seeking the Thirteen-Year-Old Visit for wisdom, warding off evil, and opening up luck, prepares the minds of visitors and gives them positive power.
Cultural properties such as the majestic Main Hall, the beautiful Three-Story Pagoda, and the Nio-mon Gate are worth seeing, and you can fully enjoy just strolling through the grounds. Access is also good, and with delicious gourmet food and sightseeing spots dotted around the area, it is ideal for a day trip.
On your next holiday, why not visit Muramatsu-san Kokuzodo and spend a peaceful time touching the infinite wisdom and compassion of Kokuzo Bosatsu?
A Message from the Guide
Although founded in the Heian period, the temple complex has been rebuilt several times, resulting in a truly beautiful and magnificent structure.
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