Jōbutsu-ji

Jōbutsu-ji is a Zen temple in Kanagawa-Honchō with multiple wooden buildings constructed according to traditional Japanese architectural principles. The grounds contain various halls for worship and meditation, arranged in a harmonious layout that shapes the entire site.

The Zen master Shinchi Kakushin founded this temple in 1290 after studying under the Chinese master Wumen Huikai. This establishment created the Hottō line, an important school of Japanese Zen tradition.

Today the quiet halls remain a place for daily Zen practice and contemplation, where visitors can experience the continuity of religious life in this space. The way the grounds are used reflects centuries of monastic tradition woven into every corner.

The site is reachable by public transportation, with several nearby stations offering good connections. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and respect the temple's guidelines to have a respectful experience.

The temple preserves manuscripts from the Fuke sect, a group that used shakuhachi flute music as a form of meditation. This connection between music and spiritual practice is remarkably rare in Japanese religious history.

Location: Kanagawa-Honchō

Inception: 1290s

Founders: Shinchi Kakushin

GPS coordinates: 35.47469,139.63206

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:24