窓月山浄見寺, Buddhist temple in Chigasaki, Japan
Sōgenji is a Buddhist temple in Chigasaki featuring a maintained cemetery with traditional Japanese garden elements. The grounds contain around 58 grave markers arranged in neat rows amid evergreen trees.
The temple was founded in 1611 to honor the memory of a deceased family patriarch. This establishment marked a significant moment in the local community's religious history.
A six-armed copper statue of Benzaiten from the Muromachi period stands in the temple and served as a focal point for local worship. This figure continues to reflect the spiritual beliefs that shaped religious practice in the region.
The temple grounds are open daily for visitors to explore the historic site. Wearing comfortable shoes is recommended, as pathways between graves may be uneven.
The grounds contain a rare ginkgo tree variety that was first discovered in Kanagawa Prefecture. This particular form grows nuts directly on its leaves, an unusual characteristic.
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