Ongakuji 松風山 音楽寺

Pilgrim spot for musicians

Ongakuji, the 23rd temple on the Chichibu 34 Kannon route, is a Rinzai Buddhist temple on the slope above the modern city. The views are quite good from here on clear days. The temple and its name are said to have been inspired by the sound of the wind in the trees. It evoked hymns to the Buddha. In the front courtyard is a pavilion housing a bell cast in the 18th century. And yes, you can ring it! It's got a lovely high tone. Here you can give thanks and get blessings for your musical talent.