Admission
Free
In Japanese folklore, kodama tree spirits are so revered that harming their ancient tree homes would unleash an angry spirit, a belief kept alive today through popular anime like Hayao Miyazaki's Princess Mononoke.
The name 'Kodama' means 'echo' in Japanese, but also refers to tree spirits in Shinto belief that inhabit trees over 100 years old, giving them personalities and earning them sacred rope markers as warnings against cutting them down.
This temple offers goshuin, but we don't have photos yet. Be the first to share yours!
Free
Facilities
If you encounter old trees marked with sacred ropes (shimenawa) on the temple grounds, treat them with special respect as they may be considered to house kodama (tree spirits) according to Japanese folklore, a belief that remains culturally significant even in modern times. Take time to appreciate these ancient trees as locals do, as they represent resilience and are integral to the spiritual atmosphere.
No verified temple called "Kodama" was identified in the provided sources, so confirm the exact place name before visiting.
Look for koi ponds on the temple grounds, as these are common features at Buddhist temples and offer opportunities for quiet reflection and meditation.
Be aware that there is significant uncertainty about this location, as search results show Kodama may refer to a district in Saitama rather than a specific temple, or could be confused with similarly named shrines in other regions of Japan.
Plan for a contemplative visit focused on quiet reflection and appreciation of traditional architecture rather than expecting extensive facilities or tourist amenities.
Approach your visit with an understanding that this is a Buddhist temple where koi fish and natural elements serve as reminders of perseverance and spiritual growth.
Share how your visit was to help other travelers.
Fascinating facts about this place
In Japanese folklore, kodama tree spirits are so revered that harming their ancient tree homes would unleash an angry spirit, a belief kept alive today through popular anime like Hayao Miyazaki's Princess Mononoke.
The name 'Kodama' means 'echo' in Japanese, but also refers to tree spirits in Shinto belief that inhabit trees over 100 years old, giving them personalities and earning them sacred rope markers as warnings against cutting them down.
Sacred trees marked with shimenawa ropes at shrines and temples represent the dwelling places of kodama spirits, reflecting Japan's deep spiritual connection between nature and religion that dates back to premodern times.
Modern Tokyoites still pay homage to century-old trees believed to house kodama spirits, visiting them at shrines as an antidote to urban stress, proving ancient folklore survives even in Japan's bustling modern cities.
More ways to continue from this place.
Within 300 m Within 600 m
Timetable data: Public Transportation Open Data Center
Renting needs the operator's app and a Japanese phone number. docomo day passes are sold at convenience stores. Data sources
Also called Enoshima Shrine Kodama
Fujisawa, Kanagawa Prefecture
