Jōshō-ji, Buddhist temple in Suhara-juku, Japan
Jōshō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Okuwa with traditional wooden structures, including a main hall, gate, and priest quarters all designated as Important Cultural Properties. The grounds feature classic Japanese temple architecture with multiple buildings that retain their historical form.
The temple was founded in 1380 by Chikatoyo Minamoto from the Kiso clan and relocated to its current location in 1598 after three devastating floods. This relocation marked a turning point in the temple's survival and stability.
The temple belongs to the Myoshinji sect of the Rinzai school and preserves the memorial tablet of Yoshimasa Kiso, a ruler of the Kiso Valley. Visitors can sense the spiritual connection between this place and the region's local heritage.
The temple is accessible year-round, with seven weeping cherry trees blooming in April and alpine roses appearing in early May. The best times to visit are during these flowering periods when the grounds are especially inviting.
The temple records contain the first documented mention of soba noodles in Japan from 1574. This rare historical reference connects the place to the early story of a beloved Japanese dish.
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