Shimameshiya Hokuto
Kasumaki: A celebratory sweet passed down in Tsushima since the Edo period.
What is Banshoin?
Banshoin is a Buddhist temple located in Izuhara-machi, Tsushima City, Nagasaki Prefecture. It was founded in 1615 by So Yoshinari, the 20th generation head of the So clan, to serve as the family temple (bodaiji) for the lords who ruled the Tsushima Domain. The temple sits in a quiet neighborhood just a short walk from the center of Izuhara, which once flourished as a 100,000-koku castle town. It contains the massive graveyard of the So clan, which is designated as a National Historic Site and is recognized alongside the Mori clan cemetery in Hagi and the Maeda clan cemetery in Kanazawa as one of the “Three Great Cemeteries of Japan.”
Highlights of Banshoin
The primary feature of the temple is the So clan cemetery situated on the hillside and the Hyakugangi, a flight of 132 stone steps leading up to it. The stone staircase is lined on both sides with moss-covered stone lanterns, creating a quiet, solemn atmosphere.
Before reaching the steps, visitors can view the “Great Cedar of Banshoin,” a tree estimated to be over 1,200 years old. The temple grounds also preserve structures of high historical value, including the Sanmon Gate (Nio-mon Gate), built in the Azuchi-Momoyama architectural style and recognized as the oldest surviving wooden structure on Tsushima.
Beyond the cemetery, the property features the Sanmon Gate (Nio-mon), an Azuchi-Momoyama-style structure that is the oldest wooden building on Tsushima.
How to Enjoy Your Visit
The temple is located roughly a 15-minute walk from Izuhara Port, allowing visitors to walk through the historic streets of the former castle town on their way to the grounds.
Upon entering, visitors typically pass through the ancient Sanmon Gate to view the Nio guardian statues before heading toward the main hall. After viewing the interior, hikers can ascend the Hyakugangi stone steps at a slow pace. At the top of the stairs, the main cemetery opens up with massive stone tombstones that reflect the long political history and status of the regional lords.
For those looking for a quiet space to experience local history away from daily crowds, the temple offers a deeply calm environment. Additionally, the annual Banshoin Festival is held every October, during which all 350 stone lanterns on the property are lit. The temple opens for special night viewing during this period, allowing visitors to see the graveyard lit entirely by candlelight.
Basic Information
・Name: Banshoin
・Operating Hours: 8:00–18:00 (Closes at 17:00 from November to March). Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.ses).
・Closed: Open year-round
・Price: Adults: 300 yen / High School Students: 200 yen / Elementary & Junior High Students: 100 yen
・Parking: Available (Space for approximately 30 vehicles, free)
Access
・Address:192 Nishizato, Izuhara-machi, Tsushima-shi, Nagasaki Prefecture
By Public Transport: Approximately a 15-minute walk from Izuhara Port.
By Car: About 20 minutes from Tsushima Airport, or 5 minutes from Izuhara Port.
Nearby Ryokan
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