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Zuiganji

宮城県

4.4

Tourist Information of This Area

general.prefecture.

Date Masamune rebuilt the temple by gathering top-notch craftsmen.

This temple was completed over a period of five years by 130 master craftsmen invited by Date Masamune. There are still many remains on the grounds, and the main hall and storehouse have been designated as national treasures. The luxurious and gorgeous fusuma paintings and carvings in the main hall, which make abundant use of gold, give a sense of the Azuchi-Momoyama culture.

Features & How to Enjoy

Classic History

Highlights

Point 1

Enjoy Beautiful Scenery Throughout the Seasons

Within the grounds of Zuiganji Temple, you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, such as the Garyubai plum tree that Date Masamune brought back from Korea during the Imjin War, and autumn leaves that color the grounds in the fall. In spring, the plum blossoms are in full bloom, and in summer, the lush green trees bring a cool breeze to Zuiganji. The autumn leaves turn a bright red, and in winter, the scenery is covered in snow. Please soothe your heart while enjoying the beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.

Point 2

Historical Building Erected by Date Masamune

The main hall, storehouse, and middle gate of Zuiganji Temple were built by Date Masamune over a period of five years, and still retain the characteristics of the Momoyama period. The solemn main hall is designated as a national treasure, and the dazzling interior decoration of each room is tailored to its purpose. Zuiganji Temple is home to many other historically valuable buildings. Why not follow in the footsteps of Date Masamune and immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere?

Point 3

A Must-Visit Tourist Spot as a Base for Matsushima Sightseeing

Zuiganji Temple is located in the center of Matsushima tourism and is also a scenic spot where you can overlook Matsushima Bay. There are also other tourist spots in the area, such as Entsuin and Godaido, where you can enjoy yourself all day long. It is also conveniently located just a short walk from the Matsushima sightseeing boat pier, making it easily accessible. To fully enjoy Matsushima, a scenic tourist spot counted among Japan's three most scenic views, be sure to visit Zuiganji Temple.

Point 4

Bring Your Stamp Book and Visit

At Zuiganji Temple, visitors are given a stamp called "goshuin". By bringing your stamp book and visiting, you can experience the history and culture of Zuiganji Temple. In the main hall, godaido hall, sanshodo hall, and shitera corridors, different goshuin stamps are given. Since they are handwritten, it takes time to complete, so it is recommended to leave your stamp book and then visit. Stamp books are also a wonderful item to remember your travels. Please bring your stamp book and visit.

Point 5

View the Cave Ruins

Next to the approach to Zuiganji Temple, there are cave ruins. The presence of caves with memorial towers and pagodas carved into the rock face is truly worth seeing. Matsushima, where Zuiganji Temple is located, has been called "Oku no Hossho" since ancient times and is an area where the deceased were memorialized. The caves, which combine a mystical atmosphere with cultural value, are one of the must-see spots when visiting Zuiganji Temple.

History

A Historic Temple, the Final Resting Place of Date Masamune

Zuiganji Temple is a historic temple said to have been founded by the great Buddhist monk Jikaku Daishi in 828. It is also the final resting place of Date Masamune, a famous warlord. The temple's grand complex, which Masamune poured his heart and soul into building, is a notable feature. The main hall, which conveys the aesthetics of the Momoyama period, has been designated as a national treasure. In 2018, a major renovation was completed, allowing visitors to appreciate the temple's original appearance.

Basic Information

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