This is the 1st stop on your Zenkoji Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage (Shichifukujin Meguri) and is dedicated to Jurojin, the deity of longevity. He’s often depicted as an elderly man with a kind face, accompanied by a deer—a symbol of long life—and is believed to bring health, wisdom, and a calm spirit to those who honor him.

Founded in 1199, Saiko-ji is a hidden gem with a fascinating backstory. It was established by a Buddhist saint named Karukaya, and the temple tells the tragic tale of a family torn apart by devotion to Buddhism. The full story is available in English at the temple, and I highly recommend taking a moment to read it when you visit.

The stamp for the pilgrimage (100 yen) is placed by one of the temple’s attendants inside the building I’ve marked in one of the photos, so be sure to go during open hours.

The temple is very easy to miss unless you know it’s there, but the peaceful atmosphere and rich history make it a meaningful and grounding start to your Seven Lucky Gods route—just a short walk from the city center.