Shōkō-ji, Buddhist temple in Chino, Japan.
Shōkō-ji is a Buddhist temple located at an elevation of around 1,200 meters (3,900 feet) in the northern mountains, surrounded by approximately 300 Yoshino cherry trees. The setting creates a quiet retreat where flowering trees dominate the landscape during spring months.
The temple was established in 1970 with support from the Toyota Group, originally created as a place for prayers dedicated to traffic safety. This founding connection shaped its purpose and continues to influence its role in the community today.
The temple hosts annual summer gatherings where executives from the Toyota Group participate in traditional Buddhist ceremonies and rituals. This ongoing connection between the temple and the corporate world reflects how business and spirituality intertwine in this mountain setting.
The temple grounds have parking space for about 70 vehicles and are open to visitors year-round. The mountain setting means steep paths are common, so sturdy footwear is advisable when exploring the area.
The cherry trees here bloom later than elsewhere due to the high elevation delaying spring conditions. This allows visitors to enjoy the flowering season, typically from late April to early May, long after cherry blossoms have faded in lower-lying areas.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
