Anrakuji Temple

Overview

Anrakuji Temple is a Soto Zen temple located in Bessho Onsen, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture. Its mountain name is Sufukusan, and its temple name is Gokokuin. Tradition holds that it was either built during the Tenpyo period (729-749) by Gyoki, or founded during the Tencho period (824-834) of the Heian period. However, its history before the Kamakura period is unclear, and it is believed to have been a Ritsu sect temple in the late Heian period. Anrakuji's historical presence is confirmed from the Kamakura period onwards, when Shokoku Isen, its de facto founder, resided there. Shokoku Isen was a Rinzai Zen monk from Shinano Province. While his birth and death years are uncertain, it is said that he studied in Song Dynasty China in the mid-13th century and returned to Japan in 1246 on the same ship as the renowned Zen monk Rankei Doryu (founder of Kencho-ji Temple in Kamakura). The second head priest, Joshin Einin, was a monk from Song Dynasty China; he also arrived in Japan on the same ship as Shokoku Isen during his second return from China. During the Kamakura period, Anrakuji flourished under the patronage of the Shioda Hojo clan, who controlled the Shioda manor. However, it declined after the Muromachi period, leaving only the octagonal three-storied pagoda from its earlier days. Around 1580, it was revived by Kosan Junkyo, a priest of the Soto Zen Tsugen school, and has since remained a Soto Zen temple. Anrakuji Temple possesses a National Treasure octagonal three-storied pagoda and is known as the oldest Zen temple in Nagano Prefecture. The temple grounds feature historical structures and beautiful natural scenery that changes with the seasons, offering a tranquil space for relaxation and rejuvenation, cherished by many. Anrakuji Temple is a peaceful place where history, nature, and tranquility harmonize. We highly recommend a visit.