The 'Bunbuku Chagama' legend suggests the iron tea kettle found at the temple could provide an endless supply of tea.
The temple is home to approximately 25 tanuki statues, creating a unique visual presence along the approach.
Morinji is officially affiliated with the Shingon-shu Buzan-ha school of Buddhism.
The surrounding Morinji-numa Marsh is recognized as a Natural Monument of Japan due to its specific ecosystem and lotus population.
Morinji is a Shingon-shu Buzan-ha Buddhist temple in Tatebayashi, Gunma, famously associated with the 'Bunbuku Chagama' folklore. The temple grounds house an extensive collection of tanuki (raccoon dog) statues, including a famous row of stone figures lining the path. It was founded in 1426 by the monk Dairin Shoni. The temple is the setting for the legend of a tanuki who transformed into a tea kettle to reward a kind monk. Visitors can view the purported iron tea kettle associated with this tale within the temple's treasure hall. The temple is surrounded by the Morinji-numa Marsh, a designated national natural monument known for its lotus flowers. The site remains a significant cultural touchstone for Japanese folklore enthusiasts.
The long path leading to the temple gate, framed by the multiple stone tanuki statues.
Visit the treasure hall to see the iron tea kettle that serves as the centerpiece of the local folklore.
Walk the perimeter of the adjacent marshland to view the local flora, especially during the summer bloom.
Take time to inspect the varying expressions on the different tanuki statues lining the entrance path.
Do not treat the tanuki statues as playground equipment or climbing structures for children.
Maintain a quiet tone appropriate for temple grounds and do not touch the older stone statues.
