Cherished Legend·Rakusai / Matsuo

Suzumushi-dera, the Cricket Temple

Properly called Kegon-ji on Mount Myōtoku, it is said to have been founded in 1723 to revive the Kegon school and 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 Jizō," believed to walk out to the visitor to grant a single wish.

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These notes come from desk research. Local traditions vary.