This clay bell (土鈴, dorei) comes from the historic Shuzenji Temple (修禅寺) in Izu, Shizuoka Prefecture. It is a delightful example of Japanese folk craft, hand-shaped into a smooth spherical form and topped with a straw roof-like tassel, evoking the image of a traditional thatched hut. The surface is decorated with a hand-painted scene of the temple grounds surrounded by seasonal trees, beautifully rendered in soft, colorful brushstrokes.
On the reverse side, the characters 伊豆 修禅寺 (Izu Shuzenji) are inscribed in red, marking its origin from one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region, founded over 1,200 years ago. Shuzenji is renowned for its connection to the famous monk Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) and is a popular destination for those seeking spiritual renewal and the beauty of Izu’s hot springs and nature.
The bell has a light, pleasant sound and was sold as an omiyage (souvenir) for visitors. It symbolizes good fortune and spiritual protection, making it a meaningful keepsake tied to the cultural and spiritual richness of the temple and its surrounding landscape.
