Kencho-ji Temple

Founded in 1253, Kencho-ji Temple is Japan’s first Zen-only monastery. Modeled after China’s Jingshan Wanshou Temple, it features a Chinese-style temple layout where the main buildings such as the Sanmon (main temple gate), Buddha Hall, and Dharma Hall are aligned in a straight line, which is a characteristic of the Zen style. While the temple grounds are designated as a national historic site, the existing temple buildings are mostly reconstructions or relocated structures from the modern era having endured repeated damage from major earthquakes and fires. The temple houses many cultural assets including a national treasure, the Statue of Rankei Doryu also known as Daikaku Zenji, and its temple bell is particularly renowned as “the most beautiful in the Kanto region.” Also known as the birthplace of Kenchin-jiru, a nourishing, meat-free vegetable soup, the temple grounds surrounded by trees offer pleasant strolls throughout the seasons.