Chōkōzan Shaotaiji Temple is an Obaku sect temple located in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture. It was founded by Inaba Masanori, the lord of Odawara Castle, and established by the Obaku priest Tetsugo Doki. It once boasted grand temple buildings, but these were destroyed by fire during the Ansei era of the late Edo period (1854-1860). Even today, historical sites remain, including the graves of the Inaba clan and Kasuga no Tsubone, and the stupa of Tetsugo Oshō, allowing visitors to experience a palpable sense of history.
The graves of the Inaba clan and Kasuga no Tsubone rest on the summit of Chōkōzan, overlooking the Sagami Bay. Kasuga no Tsubone is known as the wet nurse of Iemitsu, the third Tokugawa shogun. Iemitsu deeply respected Kasuga no Tsubone, and appointed her son, Inaba Masakatsu, as the lord of Odawara Castle. However, Masakatsu died of illness at the age of 38, succeeded by the young Inaba Masanori, who was only twelve years old. Thanks to the immense power of his grandmother, Kasuga no Tsubone, Masanori became an elder of the Tokugawa Shogunate at the age of 35.
The stupa of Tetsugo Oshō was erected to commemorate the achievements of the temple's founder. When it collapsed during the Great Kantō Earthquake of 1923, a double bronze cylinder was unearthed from its core. The inner cylinder contained the hair and nails of Tetsugo Oshō at the age of 60, while the outer cylinder was engraved with a long inscription.
Chōkōzan Shaotaiji Temple is not only rich in history but also boasts abundant natural beauty. The temple grounds feature attractions such as the weeping cherry tree of Chōkōzan (selected as one of Kanagawa's 100 Famous Trees). It's also a popular hiking spot, offering a chance to enjoy nature while immersing yourself in history.
We highly recommend a visit to Chōkōzan Shaotaiji Temple to experience its rich history and stunning natural beauty.
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