Overview
Hoju-in is a temple of the Soto Zen school located in Tsuru City, Yamanashi Prefecture. It is said to trace its history back to 1533 (the second year of the Tenbun era), and it preserves to this day the atmosphere of a Zen temple founded in Kai during the Warring States period. Standing in Tsuru, where the Katsura River flows northeast of Mount Fuji, it is easy to visit alongside a stroll through the historic streets of the former castle town. Visitors can savor the plain, quiet grounds characteristic of the Soto school, which centers on seated meditation.
Highlights
- ●Plain, quiet Zen grounds in the Soto style
- ●A Warring States history reaching back to 1533
- ●Proximity to the historic streets of the former castle town of Tsuru
- ●The character of a city of water blessed by the Katsura River and springs
History
Hoju-in is a Soto Zen temple said to date back to 1533. The Tenbun era fell within the Warring States age, when the Takeda clan was extending its power across Kai and Zen teachings were spreading through the provinces. Tsuru later flourished in the Edo period as the castle town of the Yamura domain, and Hoju-in has been maintained within this local history. For a detailed account of its development and treasures, it is best to consult on-site notices or official information.
Access
The temple stands in Tsuru City, Yamanashi Prefecture, at roughly 35.57 degrees north and 138.92 degrees east, in the urban area of Tsuru served by the Fujikyuko Line. Using stations such as Tsurushi or Yamuramachi on that line as a base, it is well suited to touring on foot or by car. Please confirm current transport and visiting conditions through official sources.
Best season
Tsuru is a mountain-ringed basin with rich seasonal change. Early summer with its dazzling fresh green and autumn with its turning foliage are especially pleasant for a walk. The clear waterside along the Katsura River invites coolness in summer, while the stillness of winter, wrapped in crisp air, also suits a Zen temple well.
Map
35.5683, 138.9181 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Enter central Tsuru on the Fujikyuko Line and walk the former castle town
- 2Visit Hoju-in and encounter the quiet Zen mood of the Soto school
- 3Enjoy the water of the city along the Katsura River and at its famous springs
- 4Round off the trip with Tsuru's local sake and regional flavors
Did you know?
💡 The Soto school is a branch of Zen that emphasizes seated meditation (shikantaza), and its temples are marked by plain, composed precincts. The tradition of a 1533 founding carries down an image of the Warring States period when the Takeda clan governed Kai. Tsuru is also called a city of water, blessed with abundant springs and the flow of the Katsura River.
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