Kanmangafuchi Abyss, located near the city of Nikko, offers stunning views of intricate lava formations. They were sculpted approximately 7000 years ago when the lava flows from an eruption of the nearby Mount Nantai mixed with the waters of the Daiyagawa River.

Within the forested region of the abyss, a series of stone Jizō statues grace the area. This collection of statues, known as ‘Narabi Jizō‘ [Jizō in a line], consists of approximately 70 stone figures arranged in front of a wall spanning about 100 meters, positioned overlooking the Daiyagawa River. These statues are also referred to as ‘Bake Jizō’ [Ghost Jizō] due to the curious phenomenon where each count results in a different number, adding an air of mystique to the site.

Jizō holds a special place as one of Japan’s cherished deities, regarded as the Bodhisattva who watches over travelers lost souls, and serves as the guardian of children. Adorned with red cloth bibs and crocheted caps, Jizō statues are an embodiment of Japanese folk belief, where the color red symbolizes the expulsion of demons and illness. While a few statues have lost their heads, they are carefully placed alongside their Jizō bodies. Despite this, the seemingly boundless line of statues creates an enchanting and captivating spectacle.

Sources
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