Miyazawa Kenji Monument
This monument, erected in 1959, memorializes Japanese author and poet Miyazawa Kenji (1896–1933), a native of Iwate Prefecture with strong connections to Chusonji. Many of Miyazawa’s works, including his poetry and children’s stories, are considered classics of modern Japanese literature. Miyazawa’s deep connection to Buddhism, particularly the Lotus Sutra, also had an important impact on his life.
The monument includes a poem Miyazawa wrote about Chusonji Temple. In the poem, a thief is so overwhelmed by the beauty of Chusonji Temple that he completely loses the urge to steal.