Sainen-ji, Buddhist temple in Fujiyoshida, Japan
Sainen-ji is a Buddhist temple located at the base of Mount Fuji, built with traditional Japanese wooden structures and tiled roofs framed by mountain scenery. The grounds include meditation spaces and prayer areas distributed throughout the temple complex.
The Buddhist priest Gyoki founded the temple in 719 during an era when Buddhism was expanding across Japan with imperial backing. This period saw the establishment of many temples as part of a broader religious movement.
The temple forms part of the Kai Hyakuhachi Reijo pilgrimage circuit, a traditional walking route that connects Buddhist sites across Yamanashi Prefecture.
Visitors can explore the grounds throughout the year, with certain areas reserved for meditation and prayer. It is worth checking visit conditions beforehand, as religious ceremonies may restrict access to some areas at certain times.
The temple preserves a collection of ancient manuscripts and religious artifacts that date back to its establishment in the 8th century. These objects reveal how Buddhist teachings and practices evolved over many centuries within this single location.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
