Dai'en-ji, Buddhist temple in Suginami-ku, Japan
Dai'en-ji is a Buddhist temple situated in Suginami-ku within a district that contains more than 100 temples and shrines. Multiple structures form the temple grounds, each reflecting different periods of Japanese religious architecture.
The temple belongs to a cluster of religious sites founded during the 16th century in this region. These buildings together document how Buddhism became woven into the fabric of this part of Tokyo.
The temple serves as a gathering place where local residents participate in Buddhist ceremonies throughout the year. Daily monastic rituals give the site its rhythm and role within the neighborhood community.
The temple is easily reached on foot from nearby train stations: about ten minutes south of JR Koenji or five minutes north of Tokyo Metro Shin-Koenji. Visiting early in the day helps you explore the grounds without crowds.
One notable feature is Chozenji, an older structure within the precinct that displays water lilies each summer. This seasonal bloom transforms part of the grounds and often goes unnoticed by passing visitors.
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