Guide
Jiun-ji is a temple of the Myoshin-ji school of the Rinzai sect, located in the Bunan-chihagihara area of Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Known as Tenryu-san, the temple's primary deity is Sho Kanzeon Bosatsu. It also serves as the 10th station of the Kai Hyakuhachiri pilgrimage. The most striking feature of this temple is the colossal Itozakura (wepled cherry tree), a designated natural monument of Yamanashi Prefecture. With an estimated age of approximately 320 years, its massive branches spread wide to drape over the main hall, creating a breathtaking spectacle that draws visitors from far and wide.
The origins of the temple date back to the Rekio era (1338–1342) of the Nanboku-cho period, founded by the monk Muso Soseki. Muso Soseki is a significant figure in Zen history, having practiced at sites like Hieki-ji in Kai. During the late Edo period, the temple played a vital role in local education through a private school established by the priest Shiwara. This location holds deep literary significance as the birthplace of the parents of Ichiyo Higuchi, one of Japan's most celebrated female writers of the Meiji era; her father, Noriyoshi, reportedly studied at this very school. A literary monument was later erected on the grounds to honor her memory.
The primary highlight is the Itozakura, a natural monument of Yamanashi Prefecture. This massive tree features a trunk diameter of 3.2 meters and a height of 15.0 meters, with branches extending 20 meters east-west and 18 meters north-south. As a variety of the Edohigan-type weeping cherry, its branches reach toward the ground, creating a sense of immense scale. Additionally, the grounds feature the Ichiyo Higuchi Literary Monument. The monument bears the names of figures related to her works and other prominent modern Japanese literary figures, offering a profound connection to Japan's literary history.
The best time to visit is early April during the blooming season. During this period, the landscape is even more spectacular as the blooming of the Itozakura coincides with the surrounding peach orchards, creating a vibrant, colorful scenery. The sight of the massive branches covering the temple architecture is a unique seasonal experience.
Visitors can stroll through the temple grounds to appreciate the historic architecture and view designated cultural assets, such as the silk paintings of the Sixteen Benevolent Deities and the depictions of the deities of Tang Dynasty China. The site also offers a chance to connect with local educational history through the literary monument. The environment is perfect for a quiet, contemplative walk through history.
The area around Jiun-ji includes several historical sites and natural spots, such as Kumpo-ji, Kanso-yashiki, Kokugaku-ji, and Keirin-ji, as well as the Tazensou (Japanese skunk cabbage) clusters in Takemori. These locations form a beautiful historical route through Koshu City.
When exploring the temple grounds, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. As the site contains both delicate natural monuments and historical literary markers, please observe proper etiquette and respect the serene environment.