Choko-ji, Buddhist temple in Shiojiri, Japan.
Choko-ji is a Buddhist temple in Shiojiri built with traditional wooden structures and old construction techniques. The temple houses stone statues from different periods and contains gardens where seasonal plants grow throughout the year.
The temple was founded in the early 1800s as a religious space and grew in importance over many decades. It accumulated artistic works that are now protected as treasured cultural objects by the nation.
Visitors come to this temple especially in November for a market tradition where they purchase special rakes believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. This annual gathering reflects how the place remains connected to local hopes and wishes.
It is best to visit early in the morning when there are fewer visitors and you can explore the spaces more peacefully. Wear comfortable shoes because the grounds have uneven paths and stairs to navigate.
The temple preserves several ancient stone statues that are recognized as national treasures and were carved by hand. These works show the carving skills of sculptors from past centuries.
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