Chōanji, Buddhist temple in Bungotakada-shi, Japan.
Choanji is a Buddhist temple in Bungotakada featuring over 200 Rakan statues spread across its wooded grounds. The property includes ponds and small waterfalls integrated into the natural landscape.
The temple was founded in 1356 during Japan's feudal period and exhibits key features of Soto Zen Buddhist architecture. It is positioned at the base of a hill as a notable example of this architectural tradition.
The Rakan statues represent Buddha's disciples and each displays a different facial expression. These figures reflect Buddhist devotion and are scattered throughout the wooded grounds among trees and water features.
The temple is open 24 hours daily with free admission, so visitors can arrive at any time. A short walk from the Sengoku bus stop leads directly to the temple grounds.
Modern sculptors began creating the extensive collection of Rakan statues in 1985 and continue this work today. This ongoing artistic activity makes the temple a living artwork that continues to evolve.
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