Mizusawa Kannon Temple

Mizusawa Kannon Temple is one of the must-visit spots of Ikaho. The temple's approach leads up stairs, through the bright red gate, and into the grounds. The grounds contains the main hall, Shaka hall, bell hall, and a pagoda. The two-story, hexagonal pagoda houses three Jizo statues, the guardian deity of children and travelers, on a rotating pedestal. Good luck is said to come to visitors who turn the pedestal three times.

Temple legend holds that the history of Mizusawa Kannon stretches back over 1,300 years. The main hall, bright red gate and the pagoda were constructed in the Edo period (1603–1868).

The temple is located just off Mizusawa Udon Street, which is lined with shops specializing in the namesake chewy noodles. Mizusawa udon is usually served cold with a dipping sauce.