Saiganji, Buddhist temple in Kumamoto, Japan
Saiganji is a Buddhist temple in Kumamoto featuring a concrete niomon gate and a stone-paved pathway that leads through the grounds toward the main sanctuary. The complex includes traditional garden features and a life-release pond on its layout.
The temple was established in 1673 by monk Kocho and underwent revival under Grand Master Asahiro in 1711. These two periods shaped its development as a religious site.
The temple serves as an active worship space where visitors encounter Buddhist altars and stone monuments that reflect local religious practices today.
Visitors should be mindful of damaged stonework and collapsed lanterns from the 2016 earthquake that still mark the temple grounds. The site remains accessible but care should be taken around affected areas.
A natural spring flows beneath the north side of the temple grounds, a feature that led to its recognition as part of Kumamoto Water Heritage. This water source is what sets this location apart.
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