香積寺, 宮城県石巻市にある曹洞宗の寺
Koushokoji is a temple situated on a mountain called Iimoriyama, surrounded by tall trees and greenery. The main grounds feature an old wooden gate, a stone pathway leading to the hall, and several areas for prayer and meditation.
The temple was founded in 1427 by a monk named Bai Feng following the Soto Zen tradition. Over centuries, trees were planted on the grounds starting in the 1600s under the monk Sanei, eventually shaping the landscape visitors see today.
The temple's name comes from Buddhist scripture and refers to a place where teachings gather. Visitors notice the maple and cedar trees along the pathways that change color with the seasons, and this natural cycle holds deep meaning for the people who come here.
The grounds are open year-round from early morning through evening. November draws large crowds for the nighttime illumination of the trees, so planning ahead is wise if you prefer quieter times.
A Zen master named Junsai from the Edo era planted trees along the pathway beside the Hachikawa river. The local community added more trees later, and in 1950 the area received the name Kourankei, combining words for 'fragrance' and 'storm'.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
