700 years ago, more than 3000 disciples learned and practiced Zen at Ungan-ji Temple, following one prominent priest. His honorific title was Bukkoku Kokushi (commonly known as Koho Kennichi, 1241-1316). Although he was born as one of the Emperor’s sons, he was careful to keep his distance from official authority. That was why he chose this remote, severe and deep mountain area. He succeeded Chinese high ranking priest, Mugaku Sogen at Kencho-ji Temple in Kamakura, but his base was consistently at Ungan-ji Temple. When you stand at the top of the temple premises, you can feel that it is really isolated from everything and was appropriate for hard ascetic practice. 40 minutes by taxi from JR Nishinasuno Station, Tohokuhonsen Line.
- 1 min read
Tochigi Ungan-ji Temple
Severe training for Zen practice in a very remote area
Community writer
Join the discussion
Cathy Cawood
9 years ago
Looks like a wonderful place!
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Sapporo Beer Opens New Brewery in Tokyo’s Ebisu
News -
2
Two New Demon Slayer Attractions Are Opening at Universal Studios Japan
Osaka -
3
A Tale of Two Temples
Culture -
4
Anime Museums in Tokyo
Culture -
5
Haneda Airport Ranked World's Cleanest
Transportation -
6
Kurobe Unazuki Canyon Route to Link with Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
News -
7
Cafe Gallery Doka Doka in Onna
Okinawa -
8
Valley of Witches: a New Ghibli Park Attraction
Aichi -
9
Guide to Golden Week
Planning -
10
SpongeBob Cafe “CAFE Secret Recipe” is Opening for a Limited Time in Shibuya
Tokyo
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Sanja Matsuri
Tokyo -
3
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
4
Hachiko Statue in Shibuya
Tokyo -
5
Shibuya Crossing
Tokyo -
6
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
7
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
8
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
9
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
10
Guide to Suica Cards
Transportation