Manpuku-ji

Manpuku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Koshigoe featuring traditional architecture, a garden with stone elements, and a layout that takes advantage of the sloped terrain. The grounds include both main worship areas and quieter sections among trees and moss-covered paths.

The temple was founded in 744 and gained importance when samurai leader Minamoto no Yoshitsune wrote a famous letter here in 1185. This event tied the location to a pivotal moment in Japan's military history.

The temple hosts annual ceremonies including the Yoshitsune Festival in April, Buddhist sutra copying sessions, and memorial services throughout the year.

The temple is a short walk from Koshigoe Station and easy to reach on foot. Access works well even on the sloped ground, though sturdy shoes help when navigating the paths.

The temple features a monorail system that connects to a nearby cemetery, offering visitors easy access to gravesites on the sloped ground. This combination of temple and burial grounds in one location is rarely seen in this configuration.

Location: Koshigoe

Inception: 744

Founders: Gyōki

Website: http://manpuku-ji.net

GPS coordinates: 35.30764,139.49503

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42