The Chichibu 34 Kannon Pilgrimage is a historic spiritual journey through 34 sacred Buddhist temples dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. It dates back over 1,300 years and is one of Japan’s three major Kannon pilgrimages, alongside the Saigoku and Bando pilgrimages. The Chichibu pilgrimage spans approximately 100 kilometers through Saitama’s mountainous countryside, offering pilgrims and visitors the opportunity to seek blessings, reflect on life, and experience the serene beauty of rural Japan.

Each temple features unique architectural elements and sculptures, and visitors engage in spiritual practices like sutra copying and offering prayers. The journey can be completed on foot, as traditionally done by pilgrims, or by using modern transportation.

Historically, the pilgrimage has been a means of seeking spiritual renewal, protection, healing, or the fulfillment of personal wishes. It has continued to attract both devout pilgrims and travelers interested in Japanese culture and spirituality.

Many of the temples are nestled in natural settings, offering stunning views of mountains, forests, and seasonal changes, making it not just a spiritual journey but also a scenic one. The pilgrimage can be completed in stages, and some visitors choose to do only a portion of it. It’s also a great way to explore Chichibu’s local culture, history, and hospitality.

Here’s an overview of the Chichibu 34 Kannon Pilgrimage temples, from 1 to 34:

  1. Shimabu-ji (誦経山 四萬部寺)
  2. Shinpuku-ji (大棚山 真福寺)
  3. Josen-ji (岩本山 常泉寺)
  4. Kinsho-ji (高谷山 金昌寺)
  5. Gokado (小川山 語歌堂)
  6. Bokuun-ji (向陽山 卜雲寺)
  7. Hochou-ji (青苔山 法長寺)
  8. Saizen-ji (青泰山 西善寺)
  9. Akechi-dera (明星山 明智寺)
  10. Daiji-ji (萬松山 大慈寺)
  11. Joraku-ji (南石山 常楽寺)
  12. Nosaka-dera (佛道山 野坂寺)
  13. Jigen-ji (旗下山 慈眼寺)
  14. Imamiya-bo (長岳山 今宮坊)
  15. Shorin-ji (母巣山 少林寺)
  16. Saiko-ji (無量山 西光寺)
  17. Jorin-ji (実正山 定林寺)
  18. Godo-ji (白道山 神門寺)
  19. Ryuseki-ji (飛渕山 龍石寺)
  20. Iwanoue-do (法王山 岩之上堂)
  21. Kannon-ji (要光山 観音寺)
  22. Doji-do (華台山 童子堂)
  23. Ongaku-ji (松風山 音楽寺)
  24. Hosen-ji (光智山 法泉寺)
  25. Kyusho-ji (岩谷山 久昌寺)
  26. Enyu-ji (萬松山 圓融寺)
  27. Daien-ji (竜河山 大淵寺)
  28. Hashidate-do (石龍山 橋立堂)
  29. Chosen-in (笹戸山 長泉院)
  30. Houun-ji (瑞龍山 法雲寺)
  31. Kannon-in (鷲窟山 観音院)
  32. Hosho-ji (般若山 法性寺)
  33. Kikusui-ji (延命山 菊水寺)
  34. Suisen-ji (日沢山 水潜寺)

These 34 temples offer a spiritual and scenic journey through Chichibu’s cultural and natural heritage. Each temple has unique characteristics and historical significance, providing pilgrims with a rewarding and reflective experience.