Hosenji

Hosenji Temple has a history of being founded by Kanetsugu as a school of learning called "Zenrin Bunko." Kanetsugu invited Kyuzan, a Zen master he had studied under at the Ashikaga School, and established Zenrin Bunko in Hosenji Temple to educate the children of the Yonezawa clan. This school became the foundation of the clan's educational system and was later succeeded by Koshokan, which was founded by Uesugi Takayama. Kanetsugu collected books for Zenrin Bunko, and these books remain as valuable cultural assets to this day. The temple's collection includes books and ancient documents from ancient to modern times, as well as historical materials, making it an important resource for learning about the culture and history of the Yonezawa clan. Hosenji Temple is a place where Kanetsugu's educational philosophy and the Yonezawa clan's academic culture are conveyed, making it an attraction for history enthusiasts and academic researchers alike. When visiting, you can appreciate these valuable cultural assets and experience the world of knowledge and education at that time!

The garden at Hosenji Temple is said to have been modeled after the famous Tenryuji Temple garden in Kyoto by Zen priest Kyuzan. It is one of the three famous gardens in the city of Yonezawa and is known for its beauty. The garden's features include mossy ground and lush trees, creating a mysterious atmosphere. Stepping inside, you can feel the silence and harmony with nature that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Through the beauty and calmness of the scenery, your heart will become peaceful and you will be freed from the noise of everyday life. Hosenji Temple's garden is a special place that makes visitors forget the hustle and bustle of the city and feel the beauty and tranquility of nature with its mysterious scenery.

Located near Hosenji Temple, Uesugi Shrine is dedicated to Uesugi Kenshin, known as the strongest warlord of the Warring States period. The shrine was built on the site of the main castle of Yonezawa, and is considered a power spot with blessings for good luck, wish fulfillment, academic and business prosperity, and more, in honor of Kenshin. The approach to the shrine features the Maizuru Bridge, with the characters "Bi" and "Ryu" written on its military flag. "Bi" is derived from Kenshin's strong faith in Bishamonten, and is a symbol of wishing for victory in battle and the safety of family. "Ryu" represents Fudo Myoo, and was a flag used as a signal for the entire army to launch a full-scale attack. Kenshin was said to have fought with the strongest gods of Bishamonten and Fudo Myoo on his side, as he had a deep faith in Buddhism. Uesugi Shrine has become a place where many people come to honor his martial prowess and faith. It is a spot where you can feel the depth of Kenshin's achievements and faith, and is also popular as a power spot for praying for the fulfillment of wishes. If you are interested in history and faith, this is a must-see spot!

Denkoku no Mori (Uesugi Museum) is a museum located near Hosenji Temple in Yonezawa City. It houses valuable items related to the history of the Uesugi family. Of particular note is the national treasure "Uesugi Honbyobu," a folding screen depicting scenes of Kyoto. It is said to have been presented by Oda Nobunaga to Uesugi Kenshin and depicts the daily life of Kyoto. Approximately 2,500 people, animals, plants, famous places, and festivals are depicted, providing a glimpse into the Kyoto of the time. While replicas are usually on display, the original is exhibited for a limited time in the spring and autumn during special exhibitions. Denkoku no Mori is a place where you can deepen your understanding of Uesugi Kenshin, the culture, and history of Yonezawa through items related to the Uesugi family and historical materials. In addition to the exhibits, you can also enjoy the beautiful gardens and surrounding scenery. Denkoku no Mori is an attractive spot for history and culture enthusiasts and those interested in the footsteps of the Uesugi family and the Warring States period. Don't miss the opportunity to see the original during the special exhibition period. When you visit, be sure to enjoy the beautiful natural environment around the Uesugi Museum as well!

The Uesugi Memorial Museum (formerly the Uesugi Earl's residence) is located near Hosenji Temple, on the site of the second bailey of Yonezawa Castle. It was the residence of the 14th generation of the Uesugi family, Earl Shigenobu, and was built in 1896, but was destroyed in the Yonezawa Great Fire of 1919. It was then rebuilt in 1925 as a building with a total hinoki cypress roof, and became a mansion with a beautiful pure Japanese style. It is also called Tsurunakikan and is designated as a registered tangible cultural property of the country. The current Uesugi Memorial Museum is the only museum open in Yonezawa, where you can taste "katemoto," said to be the origin of Yonezawa's local cuisine. Katemoto is a food that was mixed with plants and other ingredients to increase the amount of food to alleviate hunger caused by famine and crop failure. While enjoying the menu that reproduces the traditional local cuisine, you can also enjoy the view of the garden. The garden is modeled after the Hamarikyu Gardens in Tokyo and has a rich and beautiful landscape. The Uesugi Memorial Museum is a valuable place where you can touch the history and culture of the Uesugi family. It is especially recommended for history lovers and those interested in food culture. When you visit, please enjoy not only the beauty of the building, but also the tranquility of the garden and the flavor of the cuisine!