Zenmyōshō-in, Buddhist temple in Kudoyama, Japan.
Zenmyōshō-in is a Buddhist temple with traditional wooden buildings and carved symbols, set within a garden designed for meditation. The structures display typical Japanese architecture with wooden elements crafted with careful attention to detail.
The temple was founded in 1741 and became a refuge for the Sanada family during a period of political exile. This location allowed the family to rebuild their lives away from the turmoil of earlier decades.
The temple reflects the presence of the Sanada family, who left traces of their daily life and craftsmanship traditions during their time here. Objects on display tell stories of how they spent their days and what skills they valued.
The temple sits within comfortable walking distance from Kudoyama Station and welcomes visitors daily without requiring any entrance fee. It is best to visit during daylight hours to appreciate the buildings and gardens properly.
The grounds feature a covered well connected to local legend about supernatural protection of the town. This story reveals how the site became woven into the spiritual beliefs of the surrounding community.
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