Learn the story of the Great Buddha and the temple while experiencing Buddhist ritual implements and traditional Japanese musical instruments.

Founded in 1856 (Ansei 3) as the first temple in the Iwanai area, Kiko-in Temple was built through the prayers and hopes of the local people. In a guided tour led by the head priest, visitors can learn about the history of the temple—which has stood alongside the town and its people—as well as the beauty of its architecture. Visitors can also touch and experience authentic Buddhist ritual implements and traditional Japanese instruments. As the largest wooden Buddha statue north from Tokyo and the town’s first designated Tangible Cultural Property, it marked the 100th anniversary of the Great Buddha’s Consecration Ceremony in 2021 and will continue to watch over the town.