Zenryuji, Buddhist temple in Katō, Japan
Zenryuji is a Buddhist temple in Katō featuring traditional Japanese wooden architecture with distinctive roof designs and extended eaves supported by carved brackets. The building displays typical temple proportions with covered walkways and enclosed courtyards arranged for meditation and ceremony.
The temple was established to maintain a spiritual presence in the region and has remained connected to the local community ever since. Over time it developed into a center of Buddhist practice while keeping its core traditions intact.
This temple serves as a spiritual gathering place where Soto Zen practices shape the daily rhythm of the community. Visitors can observe how members engage in meditation and join in seasonal ceremonies throughout the year.
The temple is generally open to visitors, with regular ceremonies held on specific days each month and additional events scheduled throughout the year. It helps to check ahead to find the best time to visit and see community activities.
Each year members gather to participate in the Mochitsuki tradition, where they pound rice by hand to create fresh mochi using time-honored techniques. This practice brings people together and keeps alive a craft that has nearly disappeared in modern times.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
