Kochōzen-ji Temple

Overview

Kochozen-ji is a temple of the Myoshin-ji school of the Rinzai Zen sect in Minami-Alps City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Its mountain name is Zuiun-zan and its principal image is Shakyamuni Buddha. This old temple is the predecessor of Chozen-ji in Atago-cho, Kofu, and is counted among the Kai 108 Pilgrimage Sites. It is also known for its ties to Lady Oi, the mother of the warlord Takeda Shingen, and its quiet grounds carry the calm air of a Zen temple. As visiting hours may change, please check official information before you go.

Highlights

• ●An old Rinzai Myoshin-ji temple with the mountain name Zuiun-zan
• ●The historic predecessor of Chozen-ji in Kofu
• ●Tradition tied to Lady Oi, mother of Takeda Shingen
• ●A revered stop on the Kai 108 Pilgrimage

History

Kochozen-ji belongs to the Myoshin-ji school of Rinzai Zen and bears the mountain name Zuiun-zan. Chozen-ji in Atago-cho, Kofu, traces its origins to this temple, and the ko (meaning old) in its name reflects that lineage. In the Warring States period it is remembered as a temple connected to Lady Oi, mother of Takeda Shingen, and it has long been rooted in the land of Kai. It also draws faith as a stop on the Kai 108 Pilgrimage.

Map

35.5964, 138.4703 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Visit Kochozen-ji in Minami-Alps City and pay respects to Shakyamuni Buddha
2. 2Stroll slowly past the gate and the ancient trees in the grounds
3. 3Continue to nearby sites as part of the Kai 108 Pilgrimage
4. 4Head home taking in the rural scenery on the west of the Kofu basin

Did you know?

💡 The principal image is Shakyamuni Buddha, and the mountain name Zuiun-zan means auspicious clouds, fitting for a Zen temple. The grounds are said to preserve venerable old juniper trees that convey the temple's long history to this day. Details are best confirmed through official information.

Nearby spots