Chōzen-ji, Buddhist temple in Kofu, Japan.
Chōzen-ji is a Zen temple in Kofu featuring traditional wooden architecture with two pagodas, one three-storied and another five-storied, surrounded by cedar trees. The complex centers on a garden with a pond that creates a tranquil setting.
The temple was selected in the 16th century by feudal warlord Takeda Shingen as the highest ranked among Kofu's Five Great Zen Temples. This choice established it as a major spiritual center in the region.
The temple served as the family sanctuary for Lady Ooi, mother of feudal lord Takeda Shingen, and holds her grave and portrait recognized in Japan as an Important Cultural Property. Visitors can sense these personal connections to local history while walking through the spaces.
The temple is about a 10-minute walk from the northern exit of Kofu station and located at Atagomachi 208. Access is through a large wooden gate that is easy to spot.
The temple's founding priest Gishu Genpaku was Takeda Shingen's childhood teacher of Confucianism and politics. His teaching shaped the philosophy that guided the future warlord's leadership.
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