Five minutes by car from Gero Onsen, or one stop by train, is Zenshoji, a Zen temple noted to be the most beautiful of the Hida area. It is famous for its garden which was created by Sowa Kanamori, founder of the Sowa school of tea ceremony. And, for a painting, the 'Happo Nirami Daruma', by the artist, Sesshu. The origin of Zenshoji dates back to a hermitage built by Priest Genshin during the Heian Period. When visiting, do not miss the 1,200 year old cedar tree, which is designated as a National Natural Monument.
- 1 min read
Zenshoji - Impressive Zen Temple
A memorable historic site near Gero Onsen
By Sandra Isaka
Community writer
Join the discussion
Kim
a year ago
What a stunning place! Would love to see that historic tree in person!
Justin Velgus
9 years ago
Great pics. I have a question though. Your pic of "remnants of ancient Japanese civilization," did you by chance learn what used to be there? Being a temple with a history connected to art and tea, it is fun to think of what was once there.
Good question. The ruins date back to the Jomon period. The stone area photographed may have been used for some sort of religious ceremony.
3 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Two New Demon Slayer Attractions Are Opening at Universal Studios Japan
Osaka -
2
Valley of Witches: a New Ghibli Park Attraction
Aichi -
3
Kurobe Unazuki Canyon Route to Link with Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
News -
4
Tokyo One of the World's Most Walkable Cities
Transportation -
5
2024 Grand Sumo Tournaments
Culture -
6
Mount Omuro
Shizuoka -
7
Sapporo Beer Opens New Brewery in Tokyo’s Ebisu
News -
8
Anime Museums in Tokyo
Culture -
9
Guide to Golden Week
Planning -
10
Haneda Airport Ranked World's Cleanest
Transportation
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
3
Guide to Golden Week
Planning -
4
Sanja Matsuri
Tokyo -
5
Hachiko Statue in Shibuya
Tokyo -
6
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
7
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
8
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
9
Shibuya Crossing
Tokyo -
10
Guide to Suica Cards
Transportation