Guide
Unto-an (also known as Kinjosan) is a Sodo-shu Zen temple located in the Unto area of Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture. The temple is a place where historical architecture and the serene spirit of Zen coexist beautifully. It holds significant historical importance as the place where the legendary Sengoku-era warlords Uesugi Kagekatsu and Naoe Kanetsugu studied during their youth. Visitors can explore several significant landmarks, including the main hall, which is a designated Niigata Prefectural Cultural Property, the striking Red Gate (Akamon), and the sacred approach path paved with stones inscribed with characters from the Lotus Sutra.
The history of this temple is ancient. Legend has it that the temple was founded by Fujiwara no Sakishina-ni, the mother of Fujiwara no Fusama. During the Muromachi period, it was revived as a Zen temple by Uesugi Norimitsu, who is said to have lived a life of seclusion here after retiring from politics. As one of the most important Zen temples in the Echigo region, it has played a vital role in local history. It is famously documented that the warlord Uesugi Kagekatsu and his loyal retainer Naoe Kanetsugu studied under the 13th chief priest, Tsuten Son-tatsu. This deep connection to the Sengoku-era warriors makes the temple a site of immense cultural value.
Unto-an offers a variety of experiences that captivate visitors. First, the main hall—a Niigata Prefectural Cultural Property—was originally built in the Muromachi period and reconstructed during the Edo period. Its dignified presence showcases the elegance of traditional Japanese temple architecture. Next is the approach path leading from the Red Gate to the main hall. Beneath the stone paving, characters from the Lotus Sutra are embedded one by one; it is believed that walking this path brings relief from suffering and grants great blessings. Additionally, the Kaizan-do hall houses memorial tablets for former chief priests and historical figures such as Uesugi Norimitsu, Uesugi Kenshin, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. The temple grounds are also beautifully integrated with nature, featuring ponds, the Kannon-do hall, and a bell tower.
The scenery at Unto-an changes beautifully with the seasons. In spring and summer, the lush greenery and the reflection in the ponds create a refreshing atmosphere. In autumn, the surrounding nature turns vibrant with color, providing a stunning contrast against the historic wooden structures. In winter, the temple offers a breathtaking view of the