Location: Yoshimine-dera Temple (善峯寺), Kyoto Size: 7 x 9.5 x 1.8cm
Yoshimine-dera is a revered temple nestled in the western mountains of Kyoto Prefecture. Known as Temple No. 20 on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, Yoshimine-dera is famous for its sweeping views over Kyoto, its giant pine tree (Yūryu-no-Matsu), and seasonal flowers. Ted seals and handwritten inscriptions referencing its place within the Saigoku Sanjūsansho (西国三十三所), one of Japan’s most important pilgrimage circuits dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Additional phrases bless visitors with spiritual merit and protection. Tsuko-Tegata is a kind of wooden passport that was used in the Edo Period as an identity card for travelers when passing from region to region. They had been sold a lot in Showa period as mingei type souvenirs all over Japan. It's also a protector for safety and peace for family.
