A renowned Shingon temple known for its gorgeous decorative carvings, called the "Nikko of Saitama." Its main hall, the inner sanctuary of the Shoden-do, was designated a National Treasure in 2012 — the only National Treasure building in Saitama Prefecture. The carvings depict a vivid array of motifs, from monkeys and eagles to playing children, rendered in brilliant polychrome. A seven-year Heise…

Founded in 1179 when Saito Sanemori enshrined his guardian deity, Daisho Kangiten. Sanemori was a late Heian warrior who fought for the Taira side in the Genpei War, known as a tragic warrior killed by Kiso Yoshinaka's forces at the Battle of Shinohara in Kaga. It prospered as the center of faith in…