In Tokyo's residential districts, there are plenty of shrines and temples serving the needs of local residents, and near Sarue Onshi Park close to Sumiyoshi subway station, Jugan-ji is one such temple.
It was being renovated when I visited, but there were still plenty of statues to admire: some were of cute animals, some were of serene Buddhist figures, an imposing statue of the Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) being the highlight for me.
I imagine the renovation is complete now, making Jugan-ji a very pleasant, intimate place to take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Peter Sidell @peter.sidell
I came to Japan from Manchester, England in 2003, and have travelled a lot since then, around Japan and in Asia. When I'm not working, I write satire and perform stand-up comedy in and around Tokyo. Check YouTube for a taste.