Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a small gorge along the Daiya river which was formed by an eruption of Mt Nantai, Nikko's most prominent mountain. The gorge has a nice walking trail with a beautiful scenery.
Apart from the natural beauty, Kanmangafuchi Abyss is also well known for its Jizo statues. Jizo is the patron saint of children,travellers, the sick and the deceased in Buddhism and it is common to spot Jizo statues in many places, especially on roadside or at mountain bases. More often than not, Jizo statues can be seen with a red cloth tied around the neck and a cap like red cloth covers the head.
Kanmangafuchi's 70 Jizo statues are lined up in a row overlooking the Daiya river. The Jizo are also called Narabi Jizo", meaning Jizo in a line. However they are more popularly known as "Bake Jizo", meaning Ghost Jizo because it is said that their number appears to change when viewed from different spots.
On the day we visited, the place wore an eerie look, thanks to the rain.
Apart from the natural beauty, Kanmangafuchi Abyss is also well known for its Jizo statues. Jizo is the patron saint of children,travellers, the sick and the deceased in Buddhism and it is common to spot Jizo statues in many places, especially on roadside or at mountain bases. More often than not, Jizo statues can be seen with a red cloth tied around the neck and a cap like red cloth covers the head.
On the day we visited, the place wore an eerie look, thanks to the rain.
Wonderful post and images. I too loved visiting this hidden paradise of Nikko in April. I was amazed by sheer beauty and raw nature of Jizo lineup. Please read my experience on this post.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.ultrawidelife.com/kanmangafuchi-abyss-a-tranquil-walk-along-the-gorge/