Zenshō-an, Buddhist temple in Yanaka district, Taito, Japan
Zenshō-an is a Buddhist temple with traditional wooden architecture located in the Yanaka neighborhood. The complex includes a main hall, meditation spaces, and gardens designed according to Buddhist principles.
The temple was founded in 1883 by swordmaster Yamaoka Tesshu and is dedicated to honoring those who sacrificed their lives during the transition from the Edo to the Meiji period. This establishment links martial discipline with spiritual practice during a time of significant social change.
The temple houses a collection of Chinese ghost paintings and Kannon depictions from the Meiji and Taisho periods that visitors can view today. These artworks reflect the spiritual orientation that shapes daily life within the grounds.
The temple is about a 5-minute walk from Sendagi Station and is open daily. Visitors interested in Zen practices can participate in meditation sessions.
The grounds contain graves of notable figures, including rakugo performer Sankyo Encho. His personal collection of ghost paintings is preserved there and reveals an artist's passion for this distinctive art form.
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