宝泉寺, Buddhist temple in Fujisawa, Japan
Hozenji Temple is a Buddhist religious complex in Fujisawa built with wooden structures, including a gate building with darkened pillars and a large main prayer hall. The site sits on a hillside, with a long stairway providing the main approach to reach the upper temple grounds and traditional garden spaces.
The temple was founded in 1325 and has shaped religious life in the region since then. After a major fire destroyed much of it in 1513, the buildings were later rebuilt and took on their current form in the 1600s.
The temple serves as the main center for the Ji Sect, a school of Pure Land Buddhism that guides religious practice across the country. Worshippers gather in the prayer halls regularly, and you can observe Buddhist rituals and ceremonies during your visit.
You reach the upper temple grounds by climbing a long stairway with many steps, so wear comfortable shoes and move at a leisurely pace. The site is generally open to visitors most days, and you should allow extra time to explore the buildings and garden areas without rushing.
An ancient ginkgo tree stands at the top of the stairway and is more than 700 years old. The tree marks the threshold to the main buildings and serves as a living reminder of how long this place has existed.
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