Overview
Hōsen-ji is a temple of the Myoshin-ji branch of the Rinzai Zen sect in Kofu City, Yamanashi. Its mountain name is Kongo-Fukuju-zan, and its principal image is Miroku Bosatsu (Maitreya). It is counted as one of the 「Kofu Gozan」, the five great Zen temples of Kofu, and is also a site on the Kai 108 Pilgrimage. It stands quietly at the northern edge of the Kofu Basin, at the southeastern foot of Mount Hosenji, with the Aikawa River flowing to the east.
Highlights
- ●A distinguished Zen temple counted among the Kofu Gozan
- ●Miroku Bosatsu enshrined as the principal image
- ●A quiet setting at the southeastern foot of Mount Hosenji
- ●Its history as a site on the Kai 108 Pilgrimage
History
Hōsen-ji belongs to the Myoshin-ji branch of Rinzai Zen and bears the mountain name Kongo-Fukuju-zan. Known as one of the 「Kofu Gozan」, a group of distinguished Zen temples that carried the tradition of Zen to the castle town of Kofu, it has long been rooted in the faith and history of the region. Its principal image, Miroku Bosatsu, is the Buddha believed to bring salvation in the future, quietly watching over worshippers. For its detailed origins, it is best to consult the temple's official information.
Access
The temple lies at the northern edge of Kofu City, near 35.685°N, 138.559°E, at the southeastern foot of Mount Hosenji. From this vantage it overlooks the Kofu Basin, with the Aikawa River flowing to the east. It is conveniently reached from central Kofu, but please confirm visiting hours and transport details through the official information of Kofu City and the temple.
Best season
Spring, when the greenery of the grounds softens, and autumn, when the clear air sets off the temple halls, are especially pleasant. As you sense the four seasons of the Kofu Basin, a quiet, contemplative time unfolds. The summer shade and the crisp winter air each have their own charm as well.
Map
35.6856, 138.5590 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head from central Kofu toward the foot of Mount Hosenji
- 2Pass through the gate and tour the grounds of Kongo-Fukuju-zan
- 3Offer quiet prayers before the principal image, Miroku Bosatsu
- 4Enjoy the calm scenery along the Aikawa River to the east
Did you know?
💡 The 「Kofu Gozan」 is a collective name for five renowned Zen temples of Kofu, and Hōsen-ji is one of them. It is also a stop on the Kai 108 Pilgrimage, carrying the region's pilgrimage culture into the present day.
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