常福寺

Joufukuji is a Buddhist temple in Tsuchiura featuring traditional Japanese architecture situated near Lake Kasumigaura, with wooden halls and stone pathways marking the grounds. The layout spreads across the property among mature trees that have shaped the space over generations.

Founded during the Edo period, this temple witnessed Tsuchiura's transformation from a small castle town into a central transportation hub. Its longevity reflects the broader development of the entire region over centuries.

The temple serves as a place where both residents and visitors participate in ceremonies together and experience Buddhist teachings firsthand. Daily rituals and seasonal festivals create a living connection between the modern city and long-standing spiritual traditions.

The grounds are easily reached by local bus from Tsuchiura Station and remain open from early morning until late afternoon. Wear comfortable shoes as the stone pathways cover the grounds and the terrain has some gentle slopes.

The grounds contain several ancient trees, including a ginkgo over 300 years old that stands as a living witness to the site's history. These trees shape the feeling of the place and show how nature and the temple have grown together across centuries.