Daichi-ji

Daichi-ji is a Zen temple in Gifu featuring several halls built in Chinese Song Dynasty style, recognizable by curved roofs and wooden beam structures. The buildings display classical East Asian architecture with characteristic design elements and carefully arranged interior spaces.

The temple was founded around 1500 and developed into an important center of Rinzai Zen Buddhism in the region. It later joined the Myoshin-ji school, establishing itself within an established Buddhist tradition.

The temple holds a significant painting of Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, created by the renowned Japanese artist Sesshu. This artwork reflects the deep spiritual connection between artistic mastery and Zen teachings that remains present at this location today.

The grounds are typically open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with shortened hours until 4:00 PM during winter months. Parking accommodating about 50 vehicles is available for visitors.

A cedar tree more than 1200 years old stands within the temple grounds, recognized as a natural monument by the Japanese government. This ancient tree silently witnesses the long history of this sacred place.

Location: Gifu

Inception: 1500

Website: https://daichiji.com

GPS coordinates: 35.50997,136.84108

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:03