萬年寺, Buddhist temple in Niiza, Japan
Mannen-ji is a Buddhist temple in Niiza located within forested grounds that feature traditional architecture and landscaping. The property includes maple and plum trees distributed throughout the wooded setting of the Musashino region in Saitama Prefecture.
The temple was founded in 1375 by the monk Sekishitsu Zenkyū as a Buddhist sanctuary. It was rebuilt in 1603 following orders from the Tokugawa shogunate and relocated to its present site in 1663.
The temple serves as a home for Buddhist monks who maintain their spiritual practices within the grounds. Visitors can observe how the community organizes daily life around prayer and meditation.
The temple is accessible in the Nobidome area of Niiza city, set within a peaceful wooded environment that welcomes visitors. Commercial activities and public festivals are not held on the premises, allowing for a quiet visit.
The temple bell is decorated with plum blossom motifs that later inspired a woodblock print by artist Yoshida Toshi. This artistic connection between the temple and the print created an unexpected link between tradition and visual art.
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