English Version
Manganji Temple in Azumino, Nagano, is known for mizuko kuyō—memorial rites for children who passed away before they could be born.
Local rumors say that anyone who takes something away from the temple grounds may be cursed. There have also been reports of people hearing the sound of a baby crying through a car stereo.
Are these stories warnings from the spirits of mizuko, directed at visitors who come only out of idle curiosity? No one can say for certain, but the atmosphere surrounding the place has made it a quiet point of interest among those drawn to Japan’s haunted and spiritual sites.
Location: 1812 Hotaka Maki, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture.
If you visit, remember that this is a religious site connected to mourning and memorial prayer. Be respectful, do not remove anything, and avoid disturbing worshippers or local residents.
Japanese Language
水子供養で有名。なにかものをを持ち帰ると祟られると言われる。カーステレオから赤子の鳴き声がしたという報告もある。この世に生まれてくることさえ叶わなかった水子の霊、遊び半分でくる人々に警告を発しているとでも言うのだろうか。長野県安曇野市穂高牧1812
