Shigetsuden, Izu

Shigetsuden is the oldest wooden building in Izu, dating from the 13th century during the early Kamakura Era. The structure was built to commemorate Minamoto no Yoriie, the second Shogun of Japan, who died in 1204. Yoriie was the son of the first Kamakura shogun and was imprisoned in Shuzenji before being executed. According to legend, his mother ordered the building's construction to appease Yoriie's angry spirit.

The temple now functions as a library of Buddhist sutras dedicated to Yoriie's memory. Inside the main hall, an unusual Buddha statue is enshrined as the principal image. The graves of Yoriie and his retainers are located in the temple grounds, making this site an important historical landmark connected to the tragic fate of one of Japan's early shoguns.

Visitors to Shigetsuden can explore the historic wooden architecture and pay respects at the gravesites. The temple's ancient structure provides insight into early Kamakura period construction methods and religious practices. The site is located in the Shuzenji Onsen area, a hot spring town in the heart of the Izu Peninsula known for its tranquil atmosphere and historical significance.

To reach Shigetsuden, take a 10-minute bus ride from Shuzenji Station on either the Izu Hakone Bus or Tokai Bus bound for Shuzenji Onsen, and get off at the Shuzenji Onsen stop. From Tokyo, visitors can take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima Station, then transfer to the Izuhakone Railway to Shuzenji Station. The temple is located slightly uphill on the southern side of the Shuzenji Onsen town. Entry to the temple grounds is typically free, though specific admission policies should be confirmed locally.