Overview
Shohozan Tosen-ji is a Jodo-sect Buddhist temple standing on the banks of the Kodara River in Hachiman-cho, Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. Said to have been founded in 1602, it has shared the history of Gujo-Hachiman, the celebrated town of water and dance. The temple is especially known for its connection to the Gujo Odori, one of Japan's great Bon dances, and offers a quiet place of prayer along a stroll through the old castle town. A youth hostel, Youth Hostel Gujo Tosen-ji, sits within the grounds, allowing travelers to stay at the temple and savor a Gujo evening.
Highlights
- ●A Jodo-sect temple set on the bank of the clear Kodara River
- ●A storied link to the Gujo Odori, one of Japan's three great Bon dances
- ●Quiet grounds reflecting castle-town history, said to date from 1602
- ●The rare chance to stay overnight at Youth Hostel Gujo Tosen-ji
History
According to temple tradition, Tosen-ji was established in 1602, growing alongside the castle town of Gujo-Hachiman as it took shape. Its mountain name is Shohozan, and it belongs to the Jodo (Pure Land) school of Buddhism. Its setting beside the clear Kodara River is very much part of the scenery of Gujo-Hachiman, a town laced with spring water and irrigation channels. For details of the temple's treasures and the history of its halls, please refer to on-site notices or official information when you visit.
Access
The temple lies near latitude 35.75 and longitude 136.96, along the Kodara River in Hachiman-cho, Gujo City. Set within the castle-town district of Gujo-Hachiman, it is within walking distance of the area's main sights. Using public transport, travel to Gujo-Hachiman by the Nagaragawa Railway or bus and reach the temple on foot while exploring the town. By car, use one of the parking areas around the old town. Please confirm the latest transport and parking details through official sources.
Best season
High summer, roughly July through September, when the Gujo Odori is danced through the night, is when the temple's atmosphere feels most alive. Early summer, with the refreshing air of a water town, and autumn, colored by foliage, also suit a quiet visit. As seasonal events and schedules can change, it is wise to check official information before you go.
Map
35.7503, 136.9553 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Arrive at Gujo-Hachiman by the Nagaragawa Railway or bus and begin exploring the old town
- 2Walk along the Kodara River to Tosen-ji and enjoy the calm of the waterside
- 3Wander the town's channels and spring-water spots to feel its watery charm
- 4In dance season, join the evening Gujo Odori and stay at the temple's youth hostel
Did you know?
💡 Tosen-ji is remembered as a temple linked to the Gujo Odori, making it an essential part of any story about Gujo-Hachiman, the town of dance. Unusually, the grounds house Youth Hostel Gujo Tosen-ji, offering the rare experience of lodging within a temple while enjoying the castle town.
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