Tōfuku-ji Temple in Tokorozawa, where the Thirty-Six Children Pilgrimage is a delight

Tofukuji Temple is located in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture, just beyond Kiyose City in Tokyo. I think this place is quite the hidden gem. Information is scarce, but it's a Shingon Buddhist temple, and its large Kannon statue is visible from afar. However, my personal favorite spot is the Namu Sanjuroku Douji (Thirty-Six Child Bodhisattvas) at the rear. Along a small mountain path, expressive and adorable child bodhisattvas stand in a row. Walking this roughly 10-minute course while paying respects to them was truly wonderful. With small waterfalls, cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, and crape myrtles, the colors are quite rich. I think spring or autumn is especially the best time to visit.

Tōfuku-ji