Waniguchi Temple Gong

This cast bronze temple gong was dedicated to Menuma Shodenzan Temple in 1339, making it one of the older surviving examples of this type in the Kanto region. The waniguchi, meaning crocodile mouth, takes its name from the wide slot cut along the lower half that amplifies the sound when worshippers swing a rope to strike it. The ringing is thought to draw the attention of deities during prayer. The gong is now designated a Cultural Property of Saitama Prefecture and displayed at the Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folklore in Omiya. A similar gong hangs in the original spot under the eaves of the Niomon gate.