Fujisawa | Hoanden, one of Japan's three great Benzaiten temples, houses the eight-armed Benzaiten, a sight worth seeing.

Inside Eshima Shrine, there's a rather unassuming shrine. Many people only visit the three major shrines and leave, which is a shame. This Eshima Benzaiten is considered one of Japan's three great Benzaiten, along with Miyajima and Takebushima.
Entering to see the Eight-Armed Benzaiten and Myoton Benzaiten requires a separate admission fee, but believe me, the sight of these ancient Buddha statues is truly worth the price of admission. The statues are majestic, the carvings intricate, and not only beautiful but also ingenious. Because this year is the Year of the Snake, you can buy a white snake at the entrance, write your wishes on it, and then enter to offer it to Benzaiten and place it on the table. Legend has it that Eshima Benzaiten was built in 552 AD by order of Emperor Kinmei. Originally an Indian deity, Benzaiten underwent a transformation upon its arrival in Japan. Worship of Benzaiten began during the Nara period. The eight-armed Benzaiten here, wielding sacred objects such as a bow, arrows, and a spear, is considered a god of war and also a deity of fortune and wealth. It wasn't until the decree separating Shinto from Buddhism that Benzaiten was merged with the Three Goddesses of Munakata, creating the Eshima Shrine we see today.

After leaving Benzaiten, don't forget to wash your money with the Dragon King for good fortune. There's a sieve here, so rinse your money under running water to pray for prosperity. During the Lunar New Year, many Chinese people come to pray for wealth with the Dragon King.

📍Address: Enoshima Shrine Hoanden, 2 Chome-3-8, Kanagawa, Fujisawa, Enoshima, Japan 251-0036
🚗A 25-minute walk from Enoshima Station on the Eden Railway
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Post by 旅行中的野馬 | Sep 22, 2025