A shuin is a document with the name of a Shinto or Buddhist temple or shrine stamped in red ink and written on in black ink. Shuin started as proof of authentication when presenting transcribed sutras. Today, they are offered as proof of visiting a shrine or temple. Shuin differ by temple and shrine, and since each character is stamped and written out by hand, each and every one is unique, unlike a printed copy. (However, there may be cases in which the shuin has only a stamp and no handwritten characters.) It serves as proof that you visited a temple or shrine, and also makes for a fun memento of your trip. A shuin has the name of a temple or shrine written on it, so is should be treated carefully and with respect just like an amulet or talisman.
Ask for the Goshuin and open your shuin book(Goshuin stamp book) to the page you want it printed on.
Show respect to the shuin and say “Thank you.” to show your thanks.
The price for a shuin differs from place to place. It’s best to always keep coin money on your person to reduce change.
Carefully handle your shuin and preserve it safely.
Shuin may be available at the temple you visit, at another temple managing that one, or even at a personal residence nearby the temple. When you want to receive a shuin, contact the temple before you visit to confirm where and when you can receive it.
◎ Contact information for inquiries regarding temples where shuin can be received
- Aizu's 33 Kannon
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■ Contact information is here
○ Please note that in order to definitely receive a shuin, many temples require advance preparation before your visit.
- Inawashiro's 33 Kannon
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■ Contact information is here
○ Please note that there are many temples that do not offer shuin in this region.
- Kubota 33 Kannon
〇 Shuin not available.
- Okurairi's 33 Kannon
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■ Contact information is here
○ Please note that there are many temples that do not offer shuin in this region.
- Nagata Saigoku 33 Kannon
〇 Shuin not available.
- Machimawari 33 Kannon
〇 Includes many out-of-operation temples. Shuin not available.
Aizu's Korori 3 Kannon
Among the Aizu 33 Kannon, the Aizu's Korori Three Kannon (Nakata Kannon, Torioi Kannon, and Tachiki Kannon) have been long known as the core of the “Center of Buddhism”, and it is said that visiting these three Kannon can eliminate the three poisons of the heart (attachment, aversion, and delusion) through the boshisattva’s mercy and bring one a peaceful heart, health and longevity, and eventually a peaceful death. If you receive the shuin at all three locations, it is thought that you will receive the blessing of longevity and health. * Group visitors who want to receive shuin must make advance confirmation.
Tomioka Kannon
The 26th of Aizu's 33 Kannon pilgrimage sites, the Tomioka Kannon, is a National Important Cultural Property. It is said to be the largest seated statue among the Aizu's 33 Kannon. The shuin of this temple can be received at the 1st 'Bangai'(an additional temple) of Aizu's 33 Kannon pilgrimage sites, Ukimi Kannon’s Ryuko-ji Temple.
Ukimi Kannon
The shuin of the 1st 'Bangai'(an additional temple) of Aizu's 33 Kannon pilgrimage sites, Ukimi Kannon, can be received at Ryuko-ji Temple on the grounds. Ryuko-ji Temple was opened by the monk Tenkai Daisojo, the adviser of the third Tokugawa shogun who built the Tosho-gu Shrine of Nikko and laid the foundation of the Edo shogunate, in addition to many other achievements. We know that it was once a prosperous temple because it is connected to Tenkai Daisojo and houses national treasures. After receiving your shuin, you should take a casual stroll around the grounds of the temple.
Using a dedicated shuin book is recommended when receiving shuin. Why not take a shuin book with you as you visit the Japan Heritage designated cultural assets of the 33 Kannon in Aizu?
● Aizu Korori Three Kannon Shuin Book
This dedicated shuin book for the Aizu Korori Three Kannon can be received for free at the Nakata Kannon, Torioi Kannon, and Tachiki Kannon.
● Aizu's 33 Kannon Shuin Book
This dedicated shuin book for the Aizu's 33 Kannon Pilgrimage is sold at Tachiki Kannon. (for sale)
● MADE IN AIZU Shuin Book
There is also a lovely shuin book designed by Aizu locals based on the 350 year old Aizu traditional “Aizu-gata” dying fabric and made by Aizu artisans. (for sale/available by mail order)
● There are many temples without a designated parking lot, so visitors who come by car should park out of the way.
● There are Kannon-do halls that can only be reached by mountain path. Wear comfortable walking shoes when visiting.
● Bears may live near Kannon-do halls located in the mountains. Bring bear-repelling bells or play loud noise on your cell phone to keep them away.
● Kannon-do halls are historical cultural assets, but they are also places of worship. Please remain calm during your visit and not make any reckless actions.
