Tōkō-ji Temple

Overview

Tōkō-ji is a temple of the Ōbaku Zen sect in Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture, bearing the mountain name Gokoku-zan. Its principal image is a statue of Shaka Nyorai. Known as one of the family temples of the Mōri clan that ruled the Chōshū Domain, its grounds hold the quiet tombs of successive domain lords and clan members. With Ōbaku architecture rich in Chinese-influenced design set against the solemn air of the graves, it is a distinguished temple where the history of Hagi comes alive.

Highlights

• ●Halls such as the main gate and Sanmon, designated Important Cultural Properties
• ●Architecture unique to the Ōbaku sect, rich in Chinese-influenced design
• ●The solemn tombs where successive Mōri lords rest
• ●The many stone lanterns neatly arrayed before the tombs

History

Tōkō-ji is said to have been founded in 1691. Ōbaku is a school of Zen brought to Japan from China in the Edo period, and the temple preserves its distinctive architectural style to this day. Structures such as the main gate and the Sanmon gate are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan, and the temple has been carefully maintained as a site tied to the Mōri clan of the Chōshū Domain. The tombs of successive lords convey the historical weight nurtured by Hagi's castle town.

Map

34.4125, 131.4261 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Enter the grounds through the main gate and Sanmon, both cultural properties
2. 2Carefully admire the Chinese-influenced Ōbaku architecture
3. 3Walk among the tombs of the Mōri lords and the rows of stone lanterns
4. 4Pair the visit with a history stroll through Hagi's castle town

Did you know?

💡 Rows of tombs of successive Mōri lords stand in the grounds, fronted by neatly aligned stone lanterns donated by their retainers. At an annual summer event, these lanterns are said to be lit all at once, spreading a dreamlike scene. It is worth checking the exact event dates through official sources.

Nearby spots