Shuzenji Onsen is one of the oldest and most famous hot spring resort towns on the Izu Peninsula. Located in the hilly center of the peninsula, it lacks the ocean views of many nearby onsen towns but attracts visitors with its history and attractive setting. In this area there are many sightseeing spots of historical meaning. Moreover, I was there during the autumn season, when all the facilities are surrounded by colorful leafs.

When I was buying bus ticket at the station, I got the map of Shuzenji Onsen area. I decided to sightsee according to the course displayed on the map. Shuzenji Onsen was named after Shuzenji Temple, that I visited at first. Temple was founded about 1200 years ago, by Kobo Daishi, one of Japan’s most important religious personalities. When you come up the high stairs, you will see many buildings and the massive bell on the left site. It was one of the most impressive item there, because it was surrounded by beautiful autumn leafs. Group of drawers gatchered before the bell and tried to draw it instead of the main object of the tample. Behind the tample there is a garden and if you want to get inside during autumn, you have to pay a special fee. Although, it’s not expensive and really worth visiting, bacause garden is full of ponds with orange carps and there is charming waterfall there.

Then I came to visit the shinto shrine, that is not as spectacular spot as the buddhist temple, but it’s worth seeing due to the unique trees of very thick trunks. Next, I came to the ‘Shigetsuden’, library of Buddist sutras that was established by Hojo Masako, the mother of Minamoto-no Yoriie who was murdered. She built it praying for the repose of the soul of her son. This is the oldest wooden building in the Izu area.
Other attractions in Shuzenji’s town center include a small bamboo forest. What is interesting, in spite of autumn colors of trees during the Japanese autumn, there are still very verdant plants as well, just like beautiful green bamboos. The contrast between the bamboo groves stretching to the blue sky and the red bridges reminds the beautiful Japanese postcard’s scenery.

Summary

Shuzenji area is full of beautiful views regardless of a season, but I recommend you to come here during the autumn. Except of the sightseeing, you can go to the famous hot springs around there as well. If you ever be in the Izu Town area, let’s come here!

Weronika Golubska

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* This article was written by a trainee from overseas. Please note that there might be spelling and grammar mistakes.