Saifuku-ji Temple

Overview

Saifuku-ji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture. Founded in 1534 (Tenbun 3) by Yoshishige Hatano and Soho Hoshimura as a Tendai Buddhist temple, it later converted to Soto Zen Buddhism and remains so to this day. Saifuku-ji Temple is widely known for its numerous sculptures by the renowned Edo-period artisan, Ishikawa Undo. Undo, praised for his exceptional skill and artistry, is sometimes called the "Michelangelo of Japan." Saifuku-ji houses many of Undo's masterpieces, including the "Dogen Zenji subdues a ferocious tiger" (Dogensenshi moko chofu no zu). This monumental sculpture, adorning the ceiling of the Kaisan-do hall, took Undo six years to complete. It powerfully depicts Dogen Zenji subduing a ferocious tiger, showcasing Undo's extraordinary skill and artistic talent. This sculpture is designated as a tangible cultural property of Niigata Prefecture and is one of the temple's most important cultural assets. Besides the Kaisan-do hall, Saifuku-ji also features a main hall (Hondo), a temple kitchen (Kuri), a bell tower (Shoro), and other structures, each featuring distinctive sculptures. The grounds are also home to centuries-old giant trees, creating a serene atmosphere that evokes a sense of history. Saifuku-ji Temple is a precious place to experience history and art. It's highly recommended for those who wish to appreciate Ishikawa Undo's sculptures, find tranquility in the serene temple grounds, and leisurely spend time steeped in history.