Zuiganji Temple

Overview

Zuiganji Temple is a Rinzai sect Myoshin-ji school temple located in Matsushima-machi, Miyagi Prefecture. Situated in Matsushima, one of Japan's three scenic views, its full name, including its mountain name, is Matsushima Seiryu-zan Zuigan Enpuku-zenji. Founded in the Heian period, its sect and temple name have changed over time, from Tendai sect Enpuku-ji, Rinzai sect Kencho-ji school Enpuku-ji, to its current designation. It was also formerly known as Matsushima-ji. Zuiganji Temple is renowned as the family temple of Date Masamune and houses numerous precious buildings rich in history and culture, including the National Treasure main hall and the kuri (abbot's quarters). It boasts stunning highlights such as exquisite wall paintings, carvings, and gardens. Zuiganji Temple's origins trace back to the Enpuku-ji Temple of the Heian period. It is said that Enpuku-ji was a Tendai sect temple established in 828 by the monk Kukai (also known as Kobo-Daishi). Later, during the Kamakura period, under the patronage of Hojo Tokiyori, it converted to the Rinzai sect and adopted the name Enpuku-ji. In the early Edo period, it was rebuilt by Date Masamune, the Daimyo of the Sendai Domain, taking on its current form. According to Date Masamune's will, Zuiganji became his family temple. It is said that Masamune dedicated five years to its completion. As such, the temple deeply reflects Date Masamune's ideology and culture. Zuiganji Temple preserves many precious historical and cultural buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties, including the main hall, kuri, and Oinari Gate. The main hall, in particular, exemplifies the architectural style of the Momoyama period, featuring magnificent carvings and ornamentation. The temple grounds also include a weeping plum tree said to have been planted by Date Masamune, and an observation deck offering panoramic views of Matsushima Bay, allowing visitors to experience both history and nature. Zuiganji Temple is a highlight of any trip to Matsushima. If you visit Matsushima, be sure to visit Zuiganji Temple and immerse yourself in its history and culture.