Admission
Free
Saitama, Saitama Prefecture
At a Glance
The famous monk Eisai, who introduced Zen Buddhism to Japan, stayed at Seigan-ji before his second journey to China. The only surviving document written in his own hand describes this temple's founding and is a National Treasure.
At its peak, Seigan-ji controlled over 1,800 cho of land and had 42 sub-temples, making it one of the most powerful temples in the region when Imazu was an important port that rivaled Hakata.
The garden's centerpiece features jagged rocks arranged to form a turtle with a lone pine tree on top representing a crane—a traditional symbol of longevity in Japanese culture, surrounded by a 'lake' of green moss.
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Free
Within 300 m Within 600 m
Confirm the exact Seiganji before visiting: this record follows the Google Places site in Nishi Ward, Saitama (postal code 331-0048), while travel sources list other Seiganji temples in Japan.
Consider trying the meditation activity that involves tracing designs of Buddhas or Bodhisattvas on soft Japanese paper, which offers a centering and relaxing experience in the quiet temple atmosphere.
Take time to appreciate the unique karesansui garden which uses moss instead of traditional gravel to represent water, and if possible, visit after heavy rains when the garden pools water into a small pond for a dramatically enhanced view.
After exploring the temple and garden, visit the on-site cafe which offers modern design with excellent garden views and serves refreshments like matcha cake and iced green tea.
Pay attention to the meticulous craftsmanship and woodwork of the temple gate upon entry, and look for the turtle-shaped rock feature with a matsu pine tree representing a crane on its back in the centerpiece garden.
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit to preserve the tranquil atmosphere of this heavily forested temple grounds with its ancient trees and solemn shrines.
The temple is located about a 5-minute walk from the Tamatsukuri Onsen spa town, making it easy to combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Tamatsukuriyu Shrine for a fuller cultural experience.
The divine spirits venerated at this sacred place
What this place is believed to grant
Fascinating facts about this place
The famous monk Eisai, who introduced Zen Buddhism to Japan, stayed at Seigan-ji before his second journey to China. The only surviving document written in his own hand describes this temple's founding and is a National Treasure.
At its peak, Seigan-ji controlled over 1,800 cho of land and had 42 sub-temples, making it one of the most powerful temples in the region when Imazu was an important port that rivaled Hakata.
The garden's centerpiece features jagged rocks arranged to form a turtle with a lone pine tree on top representing a crane—a traditional symbol of longevity in Japanese culture, surrounded by a 'lake' of green moss.
The temple's karesansui garden uniquely uses moss instead of gravel to represent water, and after heavy rains, it transforms into an actual pond thanks to ancient wells designed to channel water through the garden.
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