20th ‘Terakoya’ at Jissoji Temple Focuses on Life Lessons

Jissoji Temple in Miura City (Hatsusecho Shimomiya 3377) hosted its 20th annual Terakoya summer program for elementary school children from July 31 to August 1. The event, rooted in the history of the predecessor school to Hatsuse Elementary, offered two days of activities designed to prompt children to confront and reflect on life and mortality. Local organizers and temple staff led hands-on lessons and discussions aimed at fostering empathy and ethical thinking among participants. The program continues a long-standing community tradition of education tied to the temple.