Seiren-ji Temple

Overview

Seiren-ji Temple was established in the Kamakura period as a memorial hall for Seirenni, the wife of Sagara Yorikage, the first head of the Kami-Sagara family. Founded in 1298 (Einin 6), it has undergone several changes throughout its long history. The Amitabha Hall, a symbol of the temple, is a representative structure that preserves the architectural style of the Kamakura period. Its thick thatched roof is a distinctive feature, showcasing the remarkable construction techniques of the time. Inside, precious Buddhist statues are enshrined, including a wooden statue of Amitabha Tathagata, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, along with standing statues of Kannon Bosatsu and Seishi Bosatsu, the attendant bodhisattvas. These statues, with their graceful forms and serene expressions, soothe the hearts of visitors. Behind the hall, in the woods, stand the five-storied pagodas and ancient stone monuments of successive generations of the Kami-Sagara family, narrating the history of this family that maintained their territories from the Kamakura period until the Meiji Restoration. The serene atmosphere of the temple grounds offers a tranquil space to immerse oneself in history and culture. Seiren-ji Temple provides a precious opportunity to connect with history and culture in a tranquil setting. Be sure to visit if you're in Kumamoto Prefecture.