Overview
Kotoku-ji is a temple of the Kencho-ji branch of the Rinzai Zen school, located in Akiruno City in the western hills of Tokyo. Said to have been founded in 1373, this venerable temple is a designated historic site of the Tokyo Metropolis. Set among the Tama hills far from the bustle of central Tokyo, it is best known for a great ginkgo tree that turns brilliant gold in autumn, drawing visitors who come to see its approach carpeted in yellow leaves. With the plain, composed atmosphere typical of a Zen temple, it suits travelers seeking a quiet moment of reflection.
Highlights
- ●The famous great ginkgo that turns gold in autumn
- ●Historic grounds designated by the Tokyo Metropolis
- ●The plain, composed air of Rinzai Kencho-ji Zen
- ●A quiet setting embraced by the Tama hills
History
According to temple tradition, its founding dates to 1373, during Japan's Northern and Southern Courts period, and it belongs to the Kencho-ji branch of Rinzai Zen, tracing its lineage to the famous Kencho-ji in Kamakura. The grounds, handed down over the centuries, are valued highly enough to be designated a historic site by the Tokyo Metropolis. As details of its later history vary among sources, please confirm the precise background through on-site explanations or official information.
Access
The temple stands in the hilly part of Akiruno City (around 35.72 N, 139.22 E). By public transport, the Itsukaichi area on the JR Itsukaichi Line serves as a starting point, with the final stretch covered by bus or on foot. Because the mountainside setting includes some winding roads, it is wise to check the latest route and visiting availability via official sources before you go.
Best season
Autumn is the highlight without question. Around mid-November the great ginkgo turns golden, giving the grounds their most spectacular season of the year. Early summer greenery is refreshing too, and for quiet contemplation a weekday morning is ideal.
Map
35.7217, 139.2174 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Reach the area via the JR Itsukaichi Line and enjoy Akiruno's countryside
- 2Pass through the gate and take in the stillness of a Zen temple
- 3In autumn, linger beneath the great ginkgo to admire the foliage
- 4Afterward, visit other old temples of Akiruno or the Akigawa area
Did you know?
💡 Locally cherished as the Zen temple of the great ginkgo, it attracts photographers during the foliage season. As several noted temples dot the same Akiruno area, checking the temple's sect and mountain name helps you avoid confusing it with neighboring ones.
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