長源院, Buddhist temple in Kutsunoya, Shizuoka, Japan
Chogenin is a Zen temple in Kutsunoya, Shizuoka, with traditional Japanese architecture, multiple halls, and a central courtyard surrounded by carefully maintained gardens and old trees. The structure combines open spaces with natural elements following Zen principles.
The temple was founded in 1488 by Zen master Kakuzan Kenchi. Between 1596 and 1615, Tokugawa Ieyasu visited the site multiple times during his falcon hunting expeditions.
The temple holds handwritten votive tablets and memorial plaques linked to Tokugawa Ieyasu, along with many ancient grave monuments scattered across its grounds. These objects tell the story of how the place mattered to families and served as a site for religious occasions over the centuries.
The temple is within walking distance from the nearest station in Shizuoka City's Aoi ward and remains accessible year-round. Visitors should expect traditional structures and natural surfaces, making sturdy footwear and respect for ongoing religious ceremonies recommended.
The grounds contain several graves of historical figures, including founder Asahina Yasushi, and still bear marks from two major fires in 1743 and 1774. The rebuildings following these events shaped its current appearance and show how the structure survived and endured.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
