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.
Tomoko Kamishima @tomoko.kamishima
Japan is a small island nation, but we have a huge number of surprising things to discover here. Many of these delights can be found when you step off the main street onto small side paths. I really enjoy studying about and researching various aspects of traditional Japanese culture, and then sha...
