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Erinji Temple: A Zen Sanctuary

Discover tranquility at Erinji Temple in Yamanashi, a historic Zen sanctuary with stunning gardens and a rich cultural heritage.

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Erinji Temple, founded in 1330, is a serene Zen temple in Koshu, Yamanashi, known as the family temple of the Takeda clan. Featuring a classic Zen layout, beautiful gardens designed by Muso Soseki, and a 'nightingale floor,' it offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Japanese history and culture.

A brief summary to Erinji

  • Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in autumn or spring to witness the gardens' vibrant foliage and flowers.
  • Walk through the Nightingale Hallway to experience the unique creaking floor designed to detect intruders.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the black Somon Gate and the red Shikyakumon Gate, which survived a fire in 1905.
  • If interested in Zazen meditation, inquire about the one-hour sessions held every 2nd Sunday of the month (reservation required).
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Enzan Station, take the Nishizawa-keikoku-bound bus from the south exit. Get off at the 'Erinji-mae' bus stop. The bus ride is approximately 11 minutes. A single bus fare typically costs around ¥200-400.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from JR Enzan Station. The ride to Erinji Temple is about 3.5 km and takes approximately 10 minutes. A typical taxi fare from Enzan Station to Erinji Temple ranges from ¥1,300 to ¥1,800.

  • Walking

    While possible, walking from Enzan Station to Erinji Temple is not recommended due to the distance (approximately 3.5km). It would take about 45-60 minutes. Consider using public transportation or a taxi for a quicker and more convenient journey.

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Discover more about Erinji

Nestled in the mountains of Yamanashi, Erinji Temple offers a tranquil retreat steeped in history and Zen Buddhism. Founded in 1330 by Nikaido Sadafuji, who invited Zen priest Muso Soseki to build it, Erinji became a significant center for Rinzai Zen culture. The temple is closely associated with the Takeda clan, particularly Takeda Shingen, the famous warlord, whose family temple it became. Erinji's grounds feature a classic Zen temple layout with a straight path leading from the Somon Gate to the Kaizando Hall. The bright red Shikyakumon Gate, an Important Cultural Property, is one of the temple's oldest surviving structures. The temple is also known for its beautiful gardens, designed by Muso Soseki, featuring a pond, streams, and carefully arranged stones. The back garden, in particular, is considered a National Place of Scenic Beauty. A unique feature is the 'nightingale floor' in the hallway leading to Takeda Shingen's gravesite, designed to creak underfoot to detect intruders. While many of the temple's buildings were lost in a 1905 fire, the temple has been lovingly restored and continues to be a place of peace and reflection. Visitors can explore the gardens, admire the architecture, and experience the serene atmosphere that has drawn people to Erinji for centuries.

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