Kōshō-ji

Kōshō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Fukuromachi with traditional architecture spread across eastern and western hillsides. The site centers on a distinctive gate built in the Ryugu-zukuri style, with various buildings and gardens arranged across the sloped terrain.

This temple was founded during the Kamakura Period by the monk Dogen as a center for Zen Buddhist teaching. A major reconstruction occurred in 1648, when builders repurposed stone and timber from the nearby Fushimi Castle.

This temple serves as a living center for Zen Buddhist practice, where visitors often encounter monks engaged in daily meditation and ritual activities. The layout and design of the buildings reflect Buddhist principles that shape how people move through and experience the space.

The temple is accessible by the Keihan Uji train line, about a ten-minute walk from Uji Station. A parking lot with space for around 30 vehicles is available for visitors arriving by car.

The temple features specially designed floors that squeak when walked upon, creating sounds throughout the building as people move. These nightingale floors were an ingenious way to detect intruders in ancient times.