Houkouji Temple

Overview

Houkouji Temple, the head temple of the Rinzai Houkouji school, was founded in 1371 and is nestled in the Okuyama mountains of Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Founded by Mugen Genzen Zenji, a prince of Emperor Godaigo, it flourished under the patronage of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Houkouji Temple is known as a place for refreshing mind and body, surrounded by a tranquil natural environment. The extensive temple grounds boast numerous precious cultural properties, including the nationally designated Important Cultural Property, Shichison Bosatsu-do hall, and wooden statues of Shaka Nyorai and his two attendant bodhisattvas, offering a glimpse into history. At Houkouji Temple, you can experience the unique tranquility through zazen (seated meditation) and shakyo (copying sutras). Zazen helps regulate breathing, eliminate distracting thoughts, and calm the mind. Shakyo enhances concentration and promotes serenity through the meticulous copying of characters. The temple also offers seasonal Shojin Ryori (vegetarian Buddhist cuisine), a culinary highlight. Characterized by its simple yet profound flavors showcasing the inherent taste of the ingredients, it provides a truly special and fulfilling experience. Houkouji Temple is an ideal destination for those seeking history, culture, nature, and inner peace.