Genkō-ji, Buddhist temple in Shūnan, Japan
Genkō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Shūnan featuring a main hall distinguished by a circular window and a square window set into its walls. The building's design reflects traditional temple architecture and creates a calm interior space for worship and visitors.
The temple was founded in 1346 by Tetto Giko as a religious site for the local community. In 1694, it became affiliated with the Soto Buddhist sect, marking an important shift in its religious practices and identity.
The temple maintains traditional Zen Buddhist practices, offering visitors opportunities to experience meditation sessions and participate in religious ceremonies throughout the year.
The temple provides information materials in English to help international visitors understand the site and its layout. Personal vehicles cannot access the grounds in November, though brief stops are permitted for taxis and necessary drop-offs.
The ceiling of the main hall bears marks from a distant conflict dating back to the 1600s involving soldiers. These marks were intentionally preserved rather than repaired, serving as a lasting reminder of that earlier time.
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