Saijoji Temple

Overview

Saijoji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple situated in Minamiashigara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, with Mount Daiyu as its mountain name. It's also recognized as the 2nd temple on the Kanto Thirty-Six Inari Shrines pilgrimage route, offering a serene and peaceful setting surrounded by history and nature, a perfect place to unwind. Founded in 1394 (the first year of the Oei era) by Ryoan Keimyo, a disciple of Tsugen Jakureimon, one of the Gasan Gosetsu (five wise men of Mount Gasan), it became a central hub for the Tsugen school in the eastern region of Japan. Many distinguished monks served as its head priests over the years, and it flourished as a training ground for monks. The temple grounds are home to numerous valuable cultural properties, including the principal image of Shaka Sanzon (three Buddhas), believed to be a work of a Buddhist sculptor from the late Kamakura period, and the only remaining pagoda in Kanagawa Prefecture. The pagoda, built in 1863 (the third year of Bunkyu), is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Saijoji Temple is also famous for its stunning autumn foliage. During the peak season, the grounds are painted in vibrant hues of red and yellow, creating a breathtaking, dreamlike landscape. The sight of the stone steps leading from the approach to the main hall, lined with fiery autumn leaves, is truly awe-inspiring. Saijoji Temple provides a tranquil escape surrounded by history and nature, a perfect sanctuary to relax and unwind. It's an ideal destination for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.