Jōgan-ji, Buddhist temple in Honchō, Tokyo, Japan
Jōgan-ji is a wooden temple featuring a main hall, cemetery, and garden with a pond where koi fish swim. The compound includes pathways through landscaped grounds that invite quiet exploration of the traditional layout.
Suzuki Kurō founded Jōgan-ji in 1438 during the Muromachi period as a religious site for the community. The temple sustained its role across centuries through local development.
Guardian figures positioned around the temple entrance represent traditional Buddhist protective elements that watch over the sacred space.
The temple sits minutes from Shibuya station within a residential neighborhood, making it easy to reach. Visitors should be aware that certain areas may be restricted during religious ceremonies.
The temple is part of a three-temple complex where each building displays different architectural styles from Japanese Buddhism. This arrangement offers visitors a rare look at how temple design varied across centuries.
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