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.
- 1 min read
Tochigi Ungan-ji Temple
Severe training for Zen practice in a very remote area

Community writer

Approaching Ungan-ji from the front

View from the top of the temple premises

Neighborhood of the temple

Purple baloonflower within the precincts of the temple

Sanmon Gate

Waterbasin

Red bridge toward Sanmon Gate

Top decoration of the roof of Butsuden Hall

Hojo Building

Inside Butsuden Hall

Bell Tower

Second gate of Ungan-ji Temple
Join the discussion
Cathy Cawood
11 years ago
Looks like a wonderful place!
1 comment 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
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
2
Winter Adventure in Akita, Japan
Akita - Sponsored -
3
5 Alternatives to Kyoto's Hotspots in Akita
Akita -
4
Kitami Mint Memorial Museum
Hokkaido -
5
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
6
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
7
Transit Guide: Osaka Amazing Pass
Transportation -
8
Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
9
Tokyo with Kids: KidZania
Tokyo -
10
Transit Guide: JR Kansai Area Pass
Transportation
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
September Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri
Osaka -
6
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
7
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
10
Tokyo Koenji Awa Odori
Tokyo