Zenjōji

Zenjōji is a Buddhist temple in Ujitawara featuring traditional Japanese buildings, prayer halls, gates, and meditation spaces arranged across substantial grounds. The layout combines multiple structures that work together to create a cohesive religious environment.

The temple was founded in 642 as a religious site and later received an important Buddhist statue from distant lands. This statue became central to the spiritual practices that developed here.

The temple serves as a spiritual focal point for the surrounding community, with regular ceremonies that remain central to local Buddhist practice. Visitors can observe how residents use these spaces to mark important moments in their lives.

The grounds are accessible to visitors during daylight hours and can be easily reached by public transportation from nearby areas. Wear comfortable walking shoes since you will spend considerable time moving through the temple grounds.

For more than 1,300 years, the main statue at this temple has been completely hidden from public view. This long concealment is extraordinary and adds to the special character of the place.