ZUIGANJI TEMPLE

Zuiganji is a Zen temple of the Myoshinji school of the Rinzai current. Its origins date back to the early ^9th century with Empukuji temple, founded by Tendai monk Jikaku Daishi Ennin. After a period of decline during the Sengoku era, the temple was completely rebuilt in the early ^17th century by Date Masamune. He called on 130 expert craftsmen from the Kinai region and used precious woods from Kumano and Kishu, known as pure lands since the Heian era. Construction began in 1604 and was completed in 1609. The main building, the hondo, and the monks' living quarters, the kuri, are now classified as national treasures, bearing witness to the refined art of the Momoyama period. The hondo, facing the bay, is 38 meters wide and 24 meters deep. It is covered by a gable roof and built from high-quality cypress, cedar and zelkova. The kuri, the monks' residence, features a simple yet elegant design with finely crafted beams and arabesque carvings. At the center of the hondo is the Shitchu Hall (Kujaku no Ma), where commemorative ceremonies are held. Its sliding doors are adorned with a magnificent peacock and the passing seasons. Around the temple, two red and white plum trees, called Garyubai, were planted in 1609 by Date Masamune to celebrate the completion of the temple. Their blossoming, between late March and early April, attracts many amazed visitors every year. An unmissable gem.