Nanzoin

Lottery tickets for luck: Nanzoin is famous in Japan for its resident Buddhist monk who won ¥1.3 billion in a lottery — believed to be due to the Buddha's blessing. The temple now sells special lottery-blessed ema (votive plaques) and omamori. Bring cash for the specific 'kane-un' (money luck) amulet — the actual format changes seasonally.

88 pilgrimage circuit timing: Complete the miniature Shikoku circuit in the early morning (8:00–9:00) before crowds arrive. The inner forest section (images 30–55) is especially atmospheric in light rain or morning mist.

Photography of the main statue: The best composition is from the side viewing deck at image statue #75 in the 88 circuit — the 41-meter bronze catches the eastern morning light perfectly at 9:00–10:00.

Combine with: Sasaguri Kannon Waterfall (a short walk uphill from temple) — a small waterfall at a hillside Kannon shrine that almost no one visits, with clear water running year-round.