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Erinji Temple Garden: A Zen Sanctuary

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Erinji Temple Garden, a Zen sanctuary in Yamanashi, Japan. A landscape designed by Musō Soseki.

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Erinji Temple Garden, a nationally recognized scenic beauty in Koshu, Yamanashi, is a Zen Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back to 1330. Designed by Musō Soseki, it features a serene pond, meticulously arranged stones, and a 'nightingale floor'.

A brief summary to 恵林寺庭園

Local tips

  • Visit during autumn (mid-November) for the most spectacular foliage.
  • Listen for the nightingale floor in the hallway leading to Takeda Shingen's resting place.
  • Take the Nishizawa-keikoku-bound bus from Enzan Station to Erinji-mae bus stop.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Enzan Station, take the Nishizawa-keikoku-bound bus from the south exit. Alight at the Erinji-mae bus stop, which is located close to the temple entrance. The bus trip costs approximately ¥600.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from JR Enzan Station. The taxi ride to Erinji Temple Garden is approximately 10 minutes. Expect to pay around ¥2,000 - ¥2,500.

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Discover more about 恵林寺庭園

Nestled in the city of Koshu, Yamanashi Prefecture, Erinji Temple Garden offers a tranquil escape into Japanese history and Zen Buddhism. Founded in 1330 by Musō Soseki, a renowned Zen monk and garden designer, the garden and temple have served as a sanctuary for centuries. Erinji became the family temple of the Takeda clan in 1541, a prominent family of warlords during the Sengoku period. The temple was destroyed in 1582 but later rebuilt by Tokugawa Ieyasu. The garden itself is a masterpiece of landscape design, covering approximately 2,270 square meters. It incorporates a pond, streams, and a waterfall, with the surrounding mountains serving as a 'borrowed landscape'. Large stones are carefully placed throughout the garden, creating a sense of harmony and balance. The garden is particularly stunning in autumn and spring when the foliage bursts into vibrant colors. Visitors can also experience the nightingale floor, designed to creak underfoot to detect intruders. Erinji Temple offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past and the serene beauty of Zen gardens. It provides a unique and captivating experience for those seeking tranquility and cultural immersion.

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