Gekkei-ji, Buddhist temple in Shinjuku, Japan.
Gekkei-ji is a Buddhist temple situated in a residential area featuring traditional Japanese buildings, a garden, and quiet stone pathways. The complex displays typical Edo period architectural elements with simple, functional structures.
The temple was founded in 1632 during the early Edo period when the Shinjuku region was still largely rural. Its establishment was part of a broader expansion of Buddhist communities throughout this area.
The temple serves as a place for daily prayer and quiet reflection where visitors can sense peace amid the busy city surroundings. You can watch people performing personal rituals and engaging in spiritual practice throughout the grounds.
The temple sits close to several subway stations in Shinjuku and is easily reached by public transportation. Visitors should know the grounds offer a quiet retreat in this busy area and work well for peaceful walks.
The temple retains its original character despite the dramatic transformation of the surrounding area from rural to urban. This makes it a window into Japan's architectural past, standing amid modern high-rises.
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