Kawasaki Dashi Heikenji, or more commonly as Kawasaki Daishi, is a temple with an origin story very similar to that of Sensôji. The story goes that a samurai by the name of Kanenori blundered and was sent into exile from his home in modern Aichi Prefecture to Kawasaki. He lived his new life as a fisherman and was deeply devoted to the teachings of Buddhism to find redemption for his mistakes. One night, he had a dream of Kobo Daishi, famed monk and founder of Koya-san. In the dream, Kobo Daishi instructed Kanenori to go fishing and his catch will bring him peace. The next day, Kanenori went fishing and found a spot that seemed brighter than normal. He cast his net and pulled up a wooden statue of the venerated Kobo Daishi. He brought the statue to his local priest, a man who had met Kobo Daishi, and together they began building the temple that would become Kawasaki Daishi.

For the casual: 6. For the educated: 7.

If you’re willing to make the little trip out to the temple, I definitely recommend it. The temple is on the larger side, but the layout feels very relaxed and open. I was particularly a fan of the main hall with its beautiful ornamentation and wonderful smell of incense. A small market lines the path to the temple so be sure to stop by for some snacks, some sweets, and wonderful conversation. In spring the temple is affected by the Kanayama Matsuri and becomes quite the popular location.