浄行寺, Buddhist temple in Kumamoto, Japan
Jogyoji is a Buddhist temple in Kumamoto with a main sanctuary building, stone pathways, and numerous traditional lanterns positioned along the ascending walkways. The grounds spread across multiple levels connected by stairs and paths that lead to different areas of the site.
The temple was destroyed multiple times by fires during armed conflicts before being rebuilt in 1779 during the Edo period. The buildings visible today date from that reconstruction and have defined the site's appearance since.
The temple hosts the Tonsha-e festival on July 23, when priests spend the entire night copying the Lotus Sutra by hand. Visitors can witness the monks at work during this meditative and focused evening.
Visitors can climb 176 stone steps to reach a grave site, followed by 300 additional steps to reach a statue at the summit of the grounds. Sturdy footwear and plenty of time are advisable, as the paths are steep and lengthy.
The main sanctuary was deliberately designed to match the height of the larger keep of Kumamoto Castle. This architectural connection creates a visual link between the two major landmarks of the city.
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