Shizuoka– category –

Hokoji Temple was founded in 1371 and is the head temple of the Hokoji school of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism. I checked in at the reception desk near the main hall and a monk showed me to my room. The grounds are a very vast facility and I was impressed.

Kasui-sai is an ancient temple with a history of over 600 years. We were served buddhist vegetarian cuisine, practiced zazen, and were given a tour of the temple by a monk. This toilet is said to be the best in Japan, and in the center stands a statue of Ucchusma.

Zennoyu is located within the grounds of Jigen-in Temple, whose history began as a hermitage that was opened around 1299-1301. A weakly alkaline hot spring gushes forth within the temple grounds. I experienced zazen starting at 6am. I was able to sit peacefully in a quiet environment.