Zendouji

Zendouji Temple is a Jodo sect temple that is said to have been founded by the high priest Gyoki who traveled throughout Japan and stopped in Ashikaga, Kozuke Province (present-day Tochigi Prefecture) in the first year of the Wado era (708) and established a grass hut. The temple grounds contain the grave of Sakakibara Yasumasa, who was one of the Four Heavenly Kings of the Tokugawa and the lord of Ashikaga Castle. In addition, there is a well adjacent to the station square where the main hall of Zendouji Temple used to be located, and a legend remains that the wife of the dragon god transformed into a beautiful woman, listened to a sermon at the temple, and then entered this well to protect the temple. The temple grounds of Zendouji Temple are also known as a beautiful autumn leaves spot, and many tourists visit during the autumn foliage season. In Tsutsujigaoka Park in Ashikaga City, there are yellow wax trees that bloom in January, and many tourists visit during the peak season. Zendouji Temple is a famous temple with a deep history and legends, and is also known as a spot for beautiful autumn leaves. As it can get crowded during the autumn foliage season, it's recommended to visit early. When visiting Ashikaga City, it's a must-see and attractive tourist spot!