About Sazaedo

Sazae-do (official name: Entsu Sansodo) is a Buddhist temple of very rare wooden construction in Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, and was built in 1796. The greatest feature of this building is the spiral structure inside, and the name was given from the shape that rolls up intricately like the shell of a “sazae”. The double spiral structure allows for one-way travel through the hall, as the upward and downward paths do not intersect. Visitors can enjoy the unusual experience of entering through the entrance and naturally reaching the exit without passing another person.

The architectural charm of Sazae-do lies in its unique design. The building has a double-helix structure, which is extremely rare in Japan, and gives visitors a sense of the high level of architectural technology of the time. The exterior is a hexagonal two-story structure, and since 33 statues of the Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) were enshrined inside, the hall was used during the Edo period as a place where visitors could make the “33 Kannon Tour” in a short time. This structure allowed visitors to complete their visit by simply walking around the hall, making it a convenient and important place to visit, especially for those who had difficulty making the long-distance pilgrimage.

Another attraction of Sazae-do is its quiet and mysterious atmosphere. Inside, the warmth of the wooden structure, the aroma of the wood, and the intricate hand-assembled structure envelop the visitor. Visitors can feel the spirit and history of Buddhism as they follow the unique spiral path from the center of the building to the outside, naturally calming their minds.

In addition, Sazae-do is located in a beautiful location that is in harmony with the surrounding nature. The area surrounding the hall is dotted with historical buildings and gardens, and the scenery changes with the seasons. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in fall are especially beautiful and popular photo spots for visitors. Furthermore, Sazaedo is close to other historical sightseeing spots such as Aizu Wakamatsu Castle and Iimori Mountain, making it a great place to enjoy history and culture while strolling around the area.

Thus, Sazaedo is a sightseeing spot that impresses visitors with its architectural charm, historical background, and harmony with the surrounding nature. Walking through the unique structure, visitors can feel the power of timeless technology and faith, making it an unforgettable experience for those who visit.