Ikō-ji

Iko-ji is a Buddhist temple in Masuda featuring a traditional Japanese garden with a semi-circular pond shaped like a crane. The grounds are surrounded by weeping cherry trees and azalea plantings that frame the landscape throughout the seasons.

The site was originally founded as Sukan-ji and received its current name after the Masuda clan built new structures on the southern slope during the Tenmon period. This reconstruction established the temple as a major Rinzai Zen center in the region.

The temple belongs to the Tofuku-ji branch of the Rinzai school and houses architectural elements from Nanao Castle, including its main entrance gate. These structures reflect the connection between local rulers and the development of Zen practice in the area.

The temple sits about three kilometers east of Masuda Station and is accessible daily. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since exploring the gardens and buildings involves walking on uneven, natural pathways.

The garden was designed by the revered monk-artist Sesshu Toyo, who spent his final years at this location. Sesshu focused here on deepening his Zen artistic practice, giving the garden a distinctive artistic quality.