Kōgen-in

Kōgen-in is a Buddhist temple in Kitakarasuyama featuring a main hall built in kyakuden style with a central pond called Benten-ike. The pond attracts wild ducks throughout the year and provides a focal point within the temple grounds.

The temple was founded in 1703 by Arima Yorimoto and relocated from Shinagawa to Kitakarasuyama following the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. This move marked a major turning point in its long existence.

The temple holds wooden statues and memorial tablets for Zen Master Gyokushū and Hosokawa Mochiyuki that show traditional Buddhist craftsmanship. These pieces reflect the spiritual practices that shaped this place over centuries.

The temple is easily reached by train, taking about 11 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Chitose-Karasuyama Station. From there, it is just a short walk to the entrance.

The main hall bears visible sword marks from conflicts in the late 19th century before the Meiji Restoration. These scars in the building tell a story of turbulent times in Japan's past.

Location: Kitakarasuyama

Inception: 1703

Founders: Arima Yorimoto

GPS coordinates: 35.68039,139.59461

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:57