A few minutes' walk from Shimizu station in the suburbs of Shizuoka City, Hounji is a small but appealing Buddhist temple, lent a calming atmosphere by the Buddhist statues around the grounds. Some are ancient, worn and weathered after hundreds of years, and some more modern, notably the Kannon (goddess of mercy). There are also interesting wooden carvings of flying guardian lions and dragons, on the gate and under the eaves of the main hall.
- 1 min read
Hounji
A charming temple in Shimizu

By Peter Sidell
Community writer
Explore nearby
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
2
Sendai Named a Top Summer Destination by Lonely Planet
Miyagi -
3
Enjoy Toba: More Than Just a Seaside Retreat
Mie - Sponsored -
4
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
5
What to Eat in Kobe Chinatown
Hyogo -
6
Osaka Noh Festa
Osaka - Sponsored -
7
25 Authentic Activities in Minobu
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
8
Volcano-hopping in Kyushu
Activities -
9
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
10
Japan Is One of Emirates' Top Summer Searches
Planning
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
3
July Grand Sumo Tournament (Nagoya)
Aichi -
4
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
5
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
6
Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri
Tokyo -
7
Kamakura Fireworks
Kanagawa -
8
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
9
Tenjin Matsuri
Osaka -
10
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture