Koenji, Buddhist temple in Minami-ku, Japan.
Koenji is a Buddhist temple in Minami-ku with a traditional vermillion red wooden gate that opens onto a central courtyard containing stone lanterns and garden spaces. The grounds include meditation halls and ceremonial areas arranged according to classical Japanese temple design principles.
The temple was founded in 1555 and later gained recognition from the third shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu. This high-ranking support led the surrounding village to adopt the name Koenji, replacing its former name Ozawa.
The temple reflects Soto Zen Buddhism through its meditation halls and traditional Japanese garden design that shapes how the neighborhood feels. The space shows how Buddhist practice remains woven into local life through its daily functions and quiet outdoor areas.
The temple is about five minutes from JR Koenji Station and opens daily from sunrise to sunset. Visitors should expect uneven ground and traditional pathways that include some steps and gravel surfaces at various points.
The grounds contain a collection of stone markers and monuments documenting local family histories and religious events spanning several centuries. These monuments tell personal stories that hold meaning for the region and often go unnoticed by most visitors.
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