Heirin-ji

Heirin-ji is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple in Nobitome that occupies a wooded site with traditional Japanese garden elements. The grounds include several meditation halls, residential quarters for monks, and mature stands of maple and pine trees.

A Buddhist master founded this temple in the late 14th century in a different region. During the second half of the 17th century, a daimyō relocated the complex to its present site.

The name of this Zen temple reflects its role as a place devoted to contemplative practice. Visitors may encounter monks in traditional robes moving between the buildings or participating in daily rituals.

The grounds open daily in the morning and close in the early afternoon, with visiting hours extended during late autumn. Sturdy footwear helps, as paths lead through the forest and over gravel surfaces.

The forest within the temple grounds holds national monument status and preserves the original ecosystem of this region. It provides habitat for over 60 bird species as well as rare butterflies.

Location: Nobitome

Inception: 1375

Founders: Sekishitsu Zenkyu

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Fee: Yes

Address: 三丁目1番1号

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 09:00-16:00

Website: https://heirinji.or.jp

GPS coordinates: 35.78996,139.56023

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28