Sogenji Temple: A Serene Zen Retreat
Discover tranquility at Sogenji Temple in Okayama, a Zen retreat known for its serene gardens and international monastic community.
Sogenji Temple, nestled in Okayama, is a tranquil Zen temple founded in 1698. Known as the family temple of the Ikeda clan, it offers a serene escape with its beautifully maintained gardens, weeping cherry blossoms in spring, and vibrant autumn foliage. Uniquely, most of its monks, excluding the chief priest, are foreign, creating a global Zen community.
A brief summary to Sogenji
- 1069 Maruyama, Okayama, Maruyama, Naka Ward, Okayama, 703-8271, JP
- +8186-277-8226
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the late March to early April to witness the beautiful weeping cherry blossoms in full bloom.
- Experience Zazen meditation on Sunday mornings from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. for a unique cultural immersion.
- Explore the Japanese garden to the east of Butsuden, which requires a small entry fee.
Getting There
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Bus
From JR Okayama Station, take a Ryobi bus bound for Saidaiji. Get off at the 'Sogenji' bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes and costs ¥340. From the bus stop, it is a 5-minute walk to the temple entrance.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Okayama Station. The ride to Sogenji Temple takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between ¥2,725 and ¥3,000. Taxi fares in Okayama start at ¥475, with an additional ¥450 per kilometer.
Discover more about Sogenji
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Okayama Castle
3.4 km
Experience the grandeur of Okayama Castle, a historical marvel that showcases Japan's rich feudal heritage amidst stunning landscapes.
Tsukimi Bridge
3.6 km
Cross the Asahi River on Tsukimi Bridge for scenic views connecting Okayama Castle to the stunning Korakuen Garden.
AEON Mall Okayama
5.1 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at AEON Mall Okayama, where modern retail meets local flavors and entertainment.
Okayama Station
5.1 km
Discover the heart of Okayama at Okayama Station, your gateway to Japan's cultural gems and natural wonders.
Okayama City Handayama Botanical Gardens
5.2 km
Discover Okayama's floral paradise: seasonal blooms, scenic views, and tranquil paths await at Handayama Botanical Gardens. A serene escape in the city.
Site of Bizen Provincial Temple
9.2 km
Discover the historical Site of Bizen Provincial Temple in Akaiwa, offering a serene glimpse into Japan's Nara period and Buddhist heritage.
Kibitsuhiko Shrine
10.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich heritage of Kibitsuhiko Shrine, a captivating Shinto shrine in Okayama, Japan, steeped in legend and tranquility.
Bizen-Ichinomiya Station
10.2 km
Discover the charm of Okayama from Bizen-Ichinomiya Station, your gateway to culture, history, and stunning landscapes in Japan.
Inujima
15.9 km
Discover Inujima, an art and nature paradise in Okayama, Japan, where contemporary art meets stunning landscapes for a unique travel experience.
Inujima Seirensho Art Museum
16.2 km
Explore contemporary art within the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a former copper refinery on the tranquil art island of Inujima.
Machicado
18.2 km
Explore the Seto Inland Sea from this charming Tamano hostel, offering budget-friendly accommodation near Uno Port and island ferries.
Bizen-yaki Pottery Workshop Mugen-an
19.2 km
Experience the ancient art of Bizen-yaki pottery at Mugen-an in Okayama, Japan. Create your own unique piece and immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Bizen Potter's Organization
19.3 km
Discover the rustic beauty of Bizen ware at the Bizen Potter's Organization, a center for Okayama's renowned pottery tradition.
Imbe Station
19.4 km
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BIZEN gallery Kai
19.4 km
Discover contemporary Bizen ware at BIZEN gallery Kai, showcasing innovative pottery in the heart of Bizen, Okayama.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ujo Park
3.4 km
Discover the tranquility of Ujo Park in Okayama, a lush city park perfect for relaxation, nature walks, and seasonal beauty.
Okayama Korakuen
3.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Okayama Korakuen, a quintessential Japanese garden rich in history and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Yumeji Art Museum
3.7 km
Discover the art of Takehisa Yumeji, a Taisho-era master, in a charming museum near Okayama's famed Korakuen Garden.
Ishiyama Park
3.8 km
A serene riverside park in Okayama, perfect for relaxation and conveniently located near major attractions.
Okayama Orient Museum
4.0 km
Explore 500,000 years of Middle Eastern, Persian, and Mediterranean history at Japan's only public Orient museum in Okayama.
Utena Bar
4.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Okayama at Utena Bar, where cozy ambiance meets a diverse drink selection in the heart of the city.
Shimoishii Park
4.6 km
Discover tranquility in Okayama’s Shimoishii Park, a beautiful retreat with lush landscapes, perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls.
Mino Park
5.1 km
Escape to Mino Park in Okayama: A serene natural retreat with lush landscapes, perfect for relaxation and scenic walks.
Statue of Momotaro
5.1 km
Meet Momotaro, Okayama's legendary Peach Boy! A symbol of courage and unity, the statue in front of Okayama Station is a must-see.
Chugoku Nature Trail - Kibi no Nakayama
10.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Chugoku Nature Trail - Kibi no Nakayama, a scenic hiking haven in Okayama, Japan, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Kibitsu Jinja (Sanbi Ichinomiya)
11.3 km
Explore Kibitsu Jinja in Okayama: a historic shrine with unique architecture, a Momotaro connection, and tranquil seasonal beauty.
Saijo Inari-san Myoukyoji
14.0 km
Discover Saijo Inari-san Myoukyoji in Okayama: a captivating blend of Shinto and Buddhist traditions, rich history, and scenic beauty.
Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum
14.1 km
Experience the timeless art of Bizen sword-making at the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum, a cultural gem in Okayama, Japan.
Bizen Osafune Sword Visiot Facility
14.5 km
Immerse yourself in the ancient craft of sword-making at the Bizen Osafune Sword Visitor Facility in Okayama, Japan.
Miyama Park
16.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Miyama Park, a scenic gem in Tamano, Okayama, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's wonders.
Essential places to dine
Ichiran Okayama Shimonakano
6.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese tonkotsu ramen at Ichiran Okayama Shimonakano—where flavor meets tradition in every bowl.
Matsumoto
11.1 km
Experience the unique fusion of Japanese and Western flavors at Matsumoto, Setouchi's premier Japanized western restaurant.
Ichitsubotei
14.3 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Ichitsubotei in Bizen, Okayama – a culinary delight nestled in serene surroundings.
Ōsakaya Shokudō
15.5 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Ōsakaya Shokudō – where tradition meets taste in Bizen's charming atmosphere.
Matsumoto cafeteria
15.9 km
Experience authentic casual Japanese dining at Matsumoto Cafeteria in Bizen, Okayama - where flavor meets affordability.
Curry & Cafe Shibabe
15.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Japan at Curry & Cafe Shibabe - where authentic curry meets cozy dining in Bizen.
Okonomiyaki Yamane
18.8 km
Discover authentic Japanese okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Yamane in Bizen, Okayama - where every bite tells a story.
Futaba Shokudo
19.5 km
Discover authentic Japanese comfort food at Futaba Shokudo in Bizen - renowned for its delicious okonomiyaki and welcoming atmosphere.
Aruei
20.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Aruei in Teshima—where local flavors meet culinary excellence amidst breathtaking landscapes.
直島キッチン148
22.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Naoshima Kitchen 148 – where traditional flavors meet contemporary artistry in a serene island setting.
Yayoda
22.1 km
Discover Yayoda: A seafood haven in Naoshima offering exquisite Japanese cuisine with fresh local ingredients.
Ishii Shouten
22.2 km
Experience authentic handmade udon noodles at Ishii Shouten in Naoshima - where tradition meets taste in every bowl.
タコタコ
22.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese street food at タコタコ in Naoshima - savor delicious takoyaki made with fresh ingredients in a cozy setting.
Aisunao
22.2 km
Discover Aisunao in Naoshima: Delight in creative vegan dishes amidst Japan's stunning art island.
NaoPAM/ Shima-Shoku-Do Miyanda
22.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at NaoPAM in Naoshima - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Omotecho Shopping Street
4.0 km
Explore Omotecho Shopping Street, a cultural hub in Okayama offering diverse shops, local eateries, and a vibrant atmosphere for tourists.
Okayama Takashimaya
4.9 km
Discover a shopping paradise at Okayama Takashimaya, where fashion meets culinary delights in the heart of Okayama.
HARD OFF
7.0 km
Explore the vibrant world of second-hand treasures at HARD OFF in Okayama, offering a sustainable shopping experience filled with unique finds.
Discount Drugstore Cosmos Kibitsu
11.2 km
Discover unbeatable prices and an extensive selection of health and beauty products at Discount Drugstore Cosmos Kibitsu in Okayama.
Super Drugstore Cosmos Bitchū Takamatsu
14.3 km
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Hard Off Nakashō Store
15.5 km
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IZURU
18.9 km
Explore the rich heritage of Bizen ceramics at IZURU, a must-visit pottery store in Okayama, Japan, showcasing exquisite handcrafted pieces.
UDO
19.3 km
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DAIKURA
19.3 km
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Gallery and Cafe Rihou
19.3 km
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KIBIDO
19.4 km
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Ichiyou Gama
19.4 km
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Hirakawa Shoji's Gallery
19.6 km
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Saradakanbizeninbeten
19.8 km
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Bisyugama
19.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Salon Arhall
3.9 km
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BAR Ship|焼酎カクテル|フルーツ|岡山
3.9 km
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Paganini
3.9 km
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BE CRAZY
3.9 km
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Raccos Bar okym
4.0 km
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Music BAR OMS
4.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Music BAR OMS in Okayama, where live music and great drinks create an unforgettable night out.
WINE BAR MAGARRI
4.0 km
Experience the essence of Okayama at Wine Bar Magarri, where exquisite wines and delightful tapas create unforgettable moments.
SM Bar Secret
4.1 km
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Six
4.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Okayama at 'Six', a trendy bar with exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Tiki Bar Head Hunter
4.2 km
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Bar Rudeboy
4.4 km
Discover Okayama's nightlife at Bar Rudeboy, where creative cocktails and vibrant music create unforgettable evenings.
Comptoir
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Comptoir, a stylish bar in Okayama offering a unique drink menu and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lhotse
4.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Okayama at Lhotse, a chic bar known for its creative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
SKIPPER’S BEER PUB
4.5 km
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Maeda
4.5 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
YEBISU YA PRO
4.1 km
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アミューズメントバー TSUKUSHI(つくし)〜シミュレーションゴルフ〜
4.3 km
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Piano Bar
4.4 km
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Treatment 〜トリートメント〜カラオケ&ダイニングBar
4.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern izakaya dining and karaoke fun at Treatment Karaoke & Dining Bar in Okayama!
Paradis
4.6 km
Experience the enchanting vibe of Paradis, a jazz bar in Okayama, where exquisite wines and live music create unforgettable nights.
Entertainment Bar fullmoon
4.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Entertainment Bar fullmoon in Okayama, where friendly hostesses and a cozy atmosphere await you.
XIX the lounge 岡山 相席ラウンジ
4.7 km
Experience the best of izakaya culture at XIX the Lounge, a stylish spot in Okayama for delicious food and lively social interactions.
crown
4.8 km
Discover the pulsating energy of Crown Night Club in Okayama, where vibrant music and exciting nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.
倉敷キャバクラRare Club
19.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Rare Club in Kurashiki, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
明後日
22.2 km
Discover the vibrant fusion of art and nightlife at 明後日 in Naoshima, where creativity meets entertainment for an unforgettable experience.
nude
36.3 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife at Nude, Takamatsu's top night club, where music and fun collide in an unforgettable experience.
Pension & business hotel Four Season Yunogo
39.7 km
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Sakushumusashi Country Club
49.4 km
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86 NIGHT CLUB
58.6 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at 86 Night Club in Fukuyama, where unforgettable moments and electrifying rhythms await every party lover.
DB
82.4 km
Discover the ultimate karaoke experience at DB in Kakogawa, where music, darts, and izakaya dining come together for an unforgettable night.