Sōji-ji, Buddhist temple in Tsurumi district, Yokohama, Japan
Sōji-ji is a large temple complex in Tsurumi district, Yokohama, with main buildings of dark wood and wide gravel courtyards between the structures. The grounds hold meditation halls, living quarters for monks, and a tall two-story gate at the main entrance.
The temple began in 740 as Morooka-dera on the Noto Peninsula and later became the head site of an important Zen school. After a fire in 1898, it moved to its present location in Yokohama, where new buildings rose from 1911 onward.
The name translates as "Temple of Overall Peace" and reflects the practice of joining meditation with daily work. Visitors watch monks during morning chanting and see how ceremonial gongs mark the rhythm of each day.
Sessions for meditation and guided visits in English are offered on certain days and should be reserved in advance. The complex sits about 15 minutes on foot from JR Tsurumi or Keikyu Tsurumi stations, and visitors should wear quiet clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
The temple grounds hold schools from kindergarten through university level, joining Buddhist teachings with modern curricula. Students and monks share the site, creating an unusual atmosphere of religious practice and academic life.
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