NO 018

In the gardens behind the main temple buildings there is a pair of trees growing close to each other, with their roots entwined. The tree on the left is a Chinese hackberry tree (Celtis sinensis), and the tree on the right is a zelkova tree (Zelkova serrata). The trees have grown tall supporting each other and are seen as a symbol of a strong and happy relationship.

Shoden, the deity of the temple, is revered for matchmaking and helping people maintain marital harmony, and the temple and the wedded trees are a popular destination for couples hoping to strengthen their relationship. A meandering path leads beyond the trees through the temple gardens in a loop past a small waterfall and a stream, and on to the Heiwa no To Peace Pagoda, and the Shoro Bell Tower.

境内の建物の裏にある庭園には、抱き合うようにして絡み合った2本の木があります。左側が榎（エノキ）で、右側が欅（ケヤキ）です。榎と欅の木が互いに支え合いながら高く育ち、良縁のシンボルと見られるようになりました。

歓喜院の神様である聖天様は、縁結びや夫婦円満で有名です。歓喜院を含めた夫婦の木は、絆を深めたいと願うカップルに人気のスポットです。夫婦の木の先の曲がりくねった道を進み、小さな滝と小川を通り過ぎると、平和の塔、そして鐘楼が見えてきます。