Chohoji Temple

Overview

Chohoji Temple is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Hainan City, Wakayama Prefecture. Its mountain name is Keitoku-zan, and its principal image is Shaka Nyorai (the historical Buddha). Founded by Shoku (Shoku), it is said to have been built in 1000 AD (during the Choho era) by order of Emperor Ichijo. The main hall, multi-storied pagoda, and main gate, built from the late Kamakura period to the Nanbokucho period, are precious cultural properties that beautifully exemplify the architectural style of the time. The main hall, a magnificent structure with an irimoya-zukuri style roof covered in honkawa tiles, houses Kamakura-period Buddhist statues. The multi-storied pagoda is a stunning structure featuring multiple layered roofs, housing a Shaka Nyorai statue. The impressive main gate, a three-bay, single-entrance gate with an irimoya-zukuri roof covered in honkawa tiles, bears an inscription, "Keitoku-zan Choho-ji," written by Imperial Prince Gyojin of Myohoin. Chohoji Temple is also known as the family temple of the Kishu Tokugawa clan, and its grounds contain a vast mausoleum where successive feudal lords, starting from the first lord Tokugawa Yorinobu, are buried. This mausoleum is a designated national historic site, underscoring the temple's history and its profound connection to the Kishu Tokugawa family. Chohoji Temple offers a tranquil space where history, culture, and nature harmoniously coexist, providing visitors with a sense of peace and serenity. When visiting Wakayama, be sure to visit Chohoji Temple and immerse yourself in its rich history and culture.