Group of Giant Matsukasa Kannon Trees (Natural Monument designated by the city)

Matsukasa Kannon is located on the hillside of Higashiyama, a long, narrow mountain that stretches from north to south from Nakayama in Higashi Ward to Oda in Asakita Ward. Entering the temple grounds from a narrow mountain trail through a red pine forest, you will find yourself surrounded by giant trees, exuding a tranquil and calm atmosphere. A large cedar tree on the east side of the main hall has a trunk nearly 4m high, and the sight of other giant trees such as cedars, cypresses, Japanese mokkoku trees, and Chinese oaks lined up alongside it is spectacular. There are no other examples of giant trees that are several hundred years old growing within the grounds of a single temple, and they were considered extremely valuable, but they were damaged by Typhoon Hagibis in September 1991. It is particularly regrettable that a large cedar tree with a trunk circumference of 4.85m, which was affectionately known to locals as the "Kannon Cedar," fell. Location: 2211 Iwatsubo, Kuchida Minamimachi, Asakita Ward Matsukasa Kannon Temple Designation date: March 19, 1984 Summary: Main tree trunk circumference: Japanese cedar 3.45m, 2.90m, 2.15m, Hinoki cypress 2.65m, Quercus serrata 3.10m, Japanese mokkoku 1.90m (trunk circumference at 1m above ground)