Cherished Legend·Rakusai / Matsuo
Suzumushi-dera, the Cricket Temple
Properly called Kegon-ji on Mount Myotoku, it is said to have been founded in 1723 to revive the Kegon school and, by tradition, later became a Rinzai temple. Since an eighth abbot was moved by the sound of bell crickets and began to keep them, the hall is said to fill with their song the year round. At the gate stands a straw-sandaled "Happiness Jizo," believed to walk out to the visitor to grant a single wish.
The nearest cup — Bamboo Coffee Kyoto (a 3-minute walk)