Jinshaku-ji

Jinshaku-ji is a Zen temple in Fukusaki featuring traditional Japanese architecture with multiple prayer halls and meditation rooms set throughout the grounds. Winding stone pathways and gardens divide the compound into distinct areas that guide movement between buildings.

The temple was established in 1628 as a sanctuary for Chinese immigrants during a period of religious restrictions in the region. Its foundation marked an important refuge for this community at a time when religious expression faced significant constraints.

The temple embodies the teachings of the Obaku school of Zen Buddhism through daily ceremonies and meditation sessions that shape how the spaces are used. Visitors encounter this active spiritual practice woven into the daily rhythm of the grounds.

The grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset, and you can walk through independently or request a guided tour at the main entrance. The stone pathways are generally well maintained, though wearing flat comfortable shoes helps when navigating the uneven surfaces.

A large Foucault Pendulum extends from the main building down to the basement level, merging physics with the spiritual space of the temple. This unusual feature in a religious setting demonstrates how the site brings together different forms of knowledge and practice.