Overview
Sōji-ji, in the Tsurumi district of Yokohama, is one of the two head temples (daihonzan) of the Sōtō school of Zen Buddhism, the other being Eihei-ji in Fukui Prefecture. Its mountain name is Shogakusan and its principal image is Shakyamuni Buddha. Steps from a busy station, the grounds open into a surprisingly vast precinct of grand wooden halls set among quiet trees. It remains a living training monastery where monks from Japan and abroad practice, and visitors can walk the halls while sensing the atmosphere of Zen.
Highlights
- ●Grand wooden halls set within an unexpectedly vast precinct
- ●Historic buildings designated as Registered Tangible Cultural Properties
- ●The atmosphere of a working Zen monastery drawing monks from around the world
- ●The grave of actor Yūjirō Ishihara and other notable ties
History
Sōji-ji traces its origins to a Zen temple founded in 1321 by Keizan in what is now Monzen, Wajima, in Ishikawa Prefecture (former Noto Province). For centuries it stood at the heart of Sōtō Zen in Noto, but after a fire in 1898 the decision was made to move its base toward the Kantō region, and in 1911 the temple relocated to its present site in Tsurumi. Over the century since, the precinct has matured, and several of its wooden structures are designated Registered Tangible Cultural Properties. The original site in Noto remains as a branch temple, so two Sōji-ji continue to carry the Sōtō lineage today.
Access
The temple sits in Tsurumi-nichome, Tsurumi Ward, Yokohama, at roughly 35.51°N, 139.67°E. It is within walking distance of JR Tsurumi Station and Keikyū Tsurumi Station and close to Yokohama and Kawasaki, making rail the easiest approach. The grounds are large, so comfortable walking shoes are advised. As opening hours and zazen sessions may change, please check official information before you visit.
Best season
Every season has its charm, but autumn foliage and the fresh green of spring set the wooden halls against the trees especially beautifully. New Year and the flower festival draw lively crowds, while weekday mornings are calmest for a quiet visit.
Map
35.5078, 139.6708 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Walk from JR Tsurumi Station to the main gate and take in the quiet approach
- 2Tour the great halls to feel the solemn space of Sōtō Zen
- 3Visit the cultural-property architecture and memorial grounds unhurriedly
- 4Extend your walk toward adjoining Tsurumi University and the temple-town mood
Did you know?
💡 The grounds are well known as the burial place of the actor Yūjirō Ishihara, and many fans come to pay their respects. Tsurumi University stands adjoining the precinct, creating an unusual setting where a temple and a place of learning share the same ground—a rare great monastery open to the modern city.
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