Shibayama Nioson (Kannonkyo-ji Temple)
Nioson-ten was worshipped by the common people of Oedo ( present-day Tokyo) as a guardian deity against fire, thieves, and bad luck. It is said that firefighters of the iroha 48 gumi (48 alphabetical groups) prayed to Nioson-ten bearing Matoi (the banner of their group) at the front.
Even today, a monument to the famous Shinmon Tatsugoro's old "O-gumi" stands in the precincts, showing that his faith has been handed down from generation to generation.
