Seihaku-ji

Seihaku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Yamanashi Prefecture with a main hall displaying classical architectural design from the early 15th century. The Butsuden hall features a three-by-three bay structure with subsidiary pavilions representing the religious architecture of that period.

The temple was founded in 1333 after Ashikaga Takauji's victory at the Battle of Kamakura, with construction funds provided by Engaku-ji. The current Butsuden hall was completed in 1415 and remained the only original structure following a devastating fire in 1682.

The temple belongs to the Myoshin-ji school of Rinzai Zen Buddhism and houses a statue of Shaka Nyorai in its main hall. Visitors experience here the direct connection between Zen practice and classical Japanese religious art.

The temple is located in Sankasho in Yamanashi Prefecture and is maintained through careful preservation work, including repairs made after the 2011 earthquake. Visitors should treat the grounds respectfully and focus on the main buildings.

The Butsuden hall was completed in 1415 and is remarkable as the only original building remaining in the complex. After a devastating fire in 1682 that destroyed all other structures, this hall was never rebuilt and has remained unchanged ever since.

Location: Yamanashi

Inception: 1333

Website: http://seihakuji.com

GPS coordinates: 35.69389,138.70833

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:01