Shutoku-ji, Buddhist temple in Akasaka, Tokyo, Japan.
Shutoku-ji is a Buddhist temple set within a garden with traditional architecture and stone pathways leading to the main prayer hall. The grounds contain multiple structures and monuments arranged across levels with maintained landscaping throughout.
The temple was founded in 1541 and moved to its current Akasaka location in 1642, originally transferred from Odawara Castle. The relocation occurred under Tokugawa patronage, which provided support for the temple's establishment and growth.
The temple serves as a burial ground for notable figures from the Edo period, including daimyo and artists who found their final resting place here. Visitors can observe how this role shaped the temple's spiritual importance within the local community.
The temple is about a 5-minute walk from Akasaka Station on the Chiyoda Line, marked by stone lanterns at the entrance. The path is easy to navigate, and the grounds are straightforward to explore with clear pathways connecting different areas.
The temple grounds contain an ancient well called Iosui that was discovered during excavation work, which revealed stone Buddha statues buried beneath the surface. This archaeological finding suggests the site holds deeper historical layers than written records indicate.
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