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Sogenji Temple: A Zen Oasis

Discover tranquility at Sogenji Temple in Okayama, a historic Zen Buddhist temple known for its serene gardens and international monastic community.

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Sogenji Temple, founded in 1698, offers a serene escape with its traditional Zen architecture and tranquil gardens. Uniquely, it's known for its international community of monks, providing a global perspective on Zen Buddhism in Okayama.

A brief summary to Sogenji

  • 1069 Maruyama, Okayama, Maruyama, Naka Ward, Okayama, 703-8271, JP
  • +8186-277-8226

Local tips

  • Join the Zazen meditation session on Sunday mornings (8:00-9:00 a.m.) for a unique cultural experience.
  • Explore the Japanese garden to the east of the Butsuden, especially beautiful during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
  • Be prepared to encounter monks from various countries, as Sogenji is known for its international community of Zen practitioners.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Okayama Station, take a Ryobi bus bound for Saidaiji. Get off at the 'Sogenji' bus stop, approximately a 20-minute ride. From the bus stop, it's a 5-minute walk to the temple entrance. The bus fare is around ¥300.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from Okayama Station. The ride to Sogenji Temple takes about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around ¥2,725 - ¥3,000 for the trip.

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Discover more about Sogenji

Sogenji Temple, officially established in 1698 by Ikeda Tsunamasa, the second lord of the Okayama Clan, stands as a testament to the enduring principles of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. Located approximately 7 km east of Okayama Station, at the southern foot of a low hill, this family temple offers visitors a tranquil retreat from the bustle of city life. The temple grounds, spanning roughly 200 meters square, are surrounded by a lush forest, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. As you approach, a straight, 300-meter-long path leads to the Somon gate, the first of several structures aligned in classic Zen temple layout. The Sanmon gate and Butsuden (Main Temple) follow, each contributing to the sense of depth and history. Behind the Butsuden lies the Ikeda family cemetery, a reminder of the temple's historical significance. To the east of the Butsuden, a meticulously maintained Japanese garden awaits, offering seasonal beauty with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. A small fee of 100 yen grants access to this tranquil space. What sets Sogenji apart is its unique embrace of internationalism within a traditional Zen setting. The chief priest welcomes ascetic monks from around the world, resulting in a diverse community of practitioners. Visitors are likely to encounter monks from various countries, offering a unique opportunity to witness Zen Buddhism through a global lens. For those seeking deeper engagement, Zazen meditation sessions are open to the public every Sunday from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.

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