Jōchin-ji Temple

Overview

Jochin-ji is a temple of the Tendai school located in Haga Town, Haga County, Tochigi Prefecture. An ancient temple said to have been founded in the Heian period, it presents a quiet appearance in a corner of rural Haga Town amid spreading farmland. Though modest rather than showy, it endures as a place of local faith that conveys a long history to the present, where one can sense the flow of time in the stillness.

Highlights

• ●A Tendai school temple said to be founded in 858, with a history from the Heian period
• ●Set in rural Haga Town, with an appearance suited to a quiet visit
• ●A local temple that conveys a long history of faith rather than showy grandeur
• ●A calm atmosphere to enjoy alongside the seasonal rural scenery

History

According to temple tradition, it was founded in the year 858, in the early Heian period, and has carried a long history as a Tendai school temple. From its opening in the Heian era to the present day, this ancient temple has taken root in the land of Haga Town and received the prayers of local people. For details of its history and the changes to its halls, it is best to check on-site guidance or official information.

Map

36.5345, 140.0181 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Visit Haga Town and begin with a quiet prayer at Jochin-ji
2. 2Take your time admiring the temple grounds and the surrounding farmland
3. 3Enjoy local flavors and specialties at a roadside station in central Haga Town
4. 4Stop by the nearby Haga hot spring to soothe travel fatigue and finish the day

Did you know?

💡 The tradition of a founding in 858 reaches back to the early Heian period, telling of the long years Jochin-ji has spent in the land of Haga. Along with the history of the Tendai school, it is a temple that has lived on within the community.

Nearby spots