Complete Guide to Choan-ji Temple (Kanagawa Prefecture)|Thorough Explanation of 3 Choan-ji Temples in Hakone, Kawasaki, and Yokosuka
Kanagawa Prefecture has multiple temples named “Choan-ji,” each with distinct characteristics and history. This article provides detailed information about three Choan-ji temples located in Sengokuhara, Hakone Town, Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City, and Kurihama, Yokosuka City.
Choan-ji Temple in Sengokuhara, Hakone Town: A Renowned Temple of Autumn Leaves and Five Hundred Arhats
History and Overview
Choan-ji Temple, located at 82 Sengokuhara, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture, is an ancient temple belonging to the Soto Zen sect. According to tradition, it was founded in 1356 (the first year of Bunbun era), boasting a history of over 660 years. The relocation and establishment at the current location in Sengokuhara is said to have occurred in the first year of Manbun (1658), with the main hall architecture dating back to the time of its founding.
The temple is characterized by its quiet setting surrounded by nature, nestled harmoniously within Hakone’s abundant natural environment. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, and it has become a hidden gem in Hakone, particularly attracting many tourists during the autumn foliage season.
The Charm of Five Hundred Arhat Statues
The main attraction of Choan-ji Temple is the five hundred arhat statues scattered throughout the grounds. Arhats refer to five hundred disciples of Buddha who completed Buddhist practice and attained the highest position as human beings.
These stone Buddhist statues, whose production began in 1985, continue to be created to this day and are placed throughout the temple grounds. As visitors walk along moss-covered paths, they can appreciate each expressive arhat statue one by one, and since each has a different expression and posture, they never bore those who come.
The arhat statues are not merely stone Buddhist images but are characterized by human-like sculptures expressing emotions—happiness, anger, sorrow, and joy. They display various expressions: smiling arhats, pondering arhats, and arhats conversing with each other, providing visitors with the enjoyment of searching for an arhat that resembles themselves.
Charm as a Celebrated Autumn Foliage Spot
Choan-ji Temple is known as one of the finest autumn foliage viewing spots in the Hakone area. The best viewing period is typically from early to mid-November, and the spectacle of the entire temple grounds turning red and yellow is breathtaking.
The magnificent foliage continuing from the approach and the collaboration with the five hundred arhat statues create a unique atmosphere found nowhere else. The contrast between the moss-covered stone Buddhas and the vibrant autumn foliage enhances the autumn atmosphere even further.
The times when congestion is expected are around 10 AM to 2 PM on weekends. For those wishing to enjoy a quiet atmosphere, early morning or weekday visits are recommended. During peak autumn foliage season, the time immediately after opening tends to allow for relatively leisurely viewing.
Access Information
Address: 82 Sengokuhara, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
Public Transportation:
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from “Sengoku” bus stop on Hakone Tozan Bus
- Approximately 30 minutes by Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone Yumoto Station
By Car:
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Gotemba IC” on the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 25 minutes from “Hakone-guchi IC” on the Odawara-Atsugi Road
Viewing Hours: Grounds open freely (usually 9:00 AM to around 5:00 PM)
Admission Fee: Free
Parking: Available (free, limited spaces)
Closed: No closing days
Nearby Hot Spring Facilities
It is recommended to visit nearby hot spring facilities in combination with viewing autumn foliage at Choan-ji. The following hot spring accommodation facilities are located within a 10 km radius.
Kawayuki no Yu Mount View Hakone: Located in the Sengokuhara area, boasting scenic open-air baths overlooking Mount Fuji. Approximately 5 minutes by car from Choan-ji Temple.
EN RESORT Re’Cove Hakone: A resort hotel offering modern design and high-quality hot springs. Approximately 10 minutes by car from Choan-ji Temple.
Hakone Onsen Sanso Nakamura: A traditional Japanese inn retaining the atmosphere of a classic inn while equipped with comfortable facilities. Located approximately 8 minutes by car from Choan-ji Temple.
Hotel Greenplaza Hakone: A large family-oriented resort hotel. Features diverse hot spring facilities and comprehensive dining options.
Hakuyu no Yado Yamadaya: An established inn where guests can enjoy source hot springs in their natural flow and seasonal cuisine. Approximately 12 minutes by car from Choan-ji Temple.
Melveil Hakone Gora: Positioned on a high point in the Gora area, characterized by hot springs with excellent views. Approximately 15 minutes by car from Choan-ji Temple.
Hakone Kowakien Tenyu: A luxury resort with extensive facilities featuring diverse hot springs. Approximately 10 minutes by car from Choan-ji Temple.
Fujiya Hotel Former Imperial Villa Kikkaaso: A historic building renowned for its distinguished architecture and refined service. Approximately 20 minutes by car from Choan-ji Temple.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Choan-ji Temple, it is recommended to tour other tourist attractions in the Sengokuhara area as well.
Sengokuhara Susuki Grassland: In autumn, a golden grassland of pampas grass spreads out, allowing you to fully enjoy autumn in Hakone in combination with Choan-ji’s autumn foliage.
Hakone Museum of Glass: An art museum centered on Venetian glass with beautiful gardens, approximately 5 minutes by car from Choan-ji Temple.
The Little Prince Museum: A museum recreating the world of Saint-Exupéry. Located approximately 3 minutes by car from Choan-ji Temple.
Hakone Wetland Flower Garden: A botanical garden collecting plants from wetlands and marshes. Seasonal flowers can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Choan-ji Temple in Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City: A Temple Rooted in the Community
Overview and History
There is also a temple named Choan-ji in Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Unlike Hakone’s Choan-ji, this temple serves the community mainly by operating memorial gardens and cemeteries.
Because it is located in an urban area, it functions as the family temple for local residents. Its religious sect and founding era differ from those of Hakone’s Choan-ji, possessing a separate history.
Access Information
Address: Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Public Transportation:
- Approximately 30 minutes on foot from “Tamaplaza Station” on the Tokyu Denentoshi Line
- Bus service is also available from Tamaplaza Station
By Car:
- Approximately 6 minutes by car from “Tonakai Kawasaki Inter” on the Tomei Expressway
Cemetery and Memorial Garden Information
Choan-ji Temple in Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City, primarily conducts cemetery and memorial garden management. Despite being in an urban area, it features a relatively quiet environment and good accessibility.
Those wishing to view or use the cemetery are recommended to contact the temple in advance to confirm detailed information. Please inquire directly regarding the religious sect, conditions, costs, and other details.
Choan-ji Temple in Kurihama, Yokosuka City: An Ancient Temple of the Pure Land Sect
History and Cultural Properties
Choan-ji Temple, located at 2-8-9 Kurihama, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a temple belonging to the Pure Land sect. According to tradition, it was founded when the 19th chief priest Zennyo Shonin of Komyo-ji, the great head temple in Kamakura, retired to this place and established a hermitage in the second year of Tenmon (1553).
The most distinctive feature of this temple, which has a history of approximately 470 years, is that it enshrines a statue of Fudo Myoo designated as a Yokosuka City designated cultural property. This Fudo Myoo has long been carefully preserved as an object of local faith.
Access Information
Address: 2-8-9 Kurihama, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Public Transportation:
- Approximately 7 minutes on foot from “Keikyu Kurihama Station” on the Keikyu Kurihama Line
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from “Kurihama Station” on the JR Yokosuka Line
By Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Sawara IC” on the Yokohama-Yokosuka Road
Cemetery Information
Choan-ji Temple in Kurihama, Yokosuka City, also operates a memorial garden and serves the local community as a Pure Land sect temple cemetery. It is characterized by its convenient location within walking distance of the station, making it ideal for grave visits.
Cemetery usage conditions, costs, and vacancy status are subject to change, so please contact the temple directly for the latest information.
Comparison of the 3 Choan-ji Temples and How to Choose
The three Choan-ji temples in Kanagawa Prefecture each possess distinct characteristics and purposes. When planning a visit, use the following information to select the temple that best suits your purpose.
For Tourism Purposes
Choan-ji Temple in Sengokuhara, Hakone Town is the best choice. Known as a renowned autumn foliage spot, it features the unique attraction of five hundred arhat statues. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of each season within a natural atmosphere. The autumn foliage season is particularly must-see.
When Searching for a Cemetery or Memorial Garden
Choan-ji Temple in Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City or Choan-ji Temple in Kurihama, Yokosuka City are options.
- Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City: Convenient for those living along the Tokyu Denentoshi Line and those prioritizing access from the Tomei Expressway.
- Kurihama, Yokosuka City: Suitable for those living along the Keikyu Line and in the Yokosuka and Miura areas. Also recommended for those wishing to become parishioners of a Pure Land sect temple.
For Those Interested in History and Cultural Properties
Both Choan-ji Temple in Sengokuhara, Hakone Town (founded in 1356, Soto Zen sect) and Choan-ji Temple in Kurihama, Yokosuka City (founded in 1553, Pure Land sect, with the Fudo Myoo statue designated as a municipal cultural property) are relevant. Since each possesses different religious sects and historical backgrounds, comparing and visiting both would be fascinating.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting Choan-ji
Basic Worship Etiquette
When visiting a temple, observe the following basic etiquette.
- Dress: Avoid clothing with excessive exposure and visit in attire showing appropriate restraint.
- Photography: Photography within the grounds is generally permitted, but be mindful of other worshippers and the interior of the main hall.
- Quietness: Temples are places for quiet worship. Refrain from speaking loudly.
- Smoking and Food/Drink: Smoking and eating/drinking are prohibited outside designated areas.
- Trash: Always take trash with you or dispose of it in designated locations.
Precautions Specific to Choan-ji in Hakone Sengokuhara
- Congestion During Foliage Season: The weekends from early to mid-November are particularly crowded. Early morning or weekday visits are recommended.
- Parking: Since parking spaces are limited, consider using public transportation.
- Five Hundred Arhat Statues: Avoid touching or climbing on the stone Buddhas.
- Weather: Since weather changes frequently in Hakone, it is recommended to prepare rain gear.
Precautions When Visiting Cemeteries
When visiting Choan-ji Temple in Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City, or Kurihama, Yokosuka City for cemetery viewing or grave visits:
- Prior Contact: It is best to contact the temple in advance for smooth viewing.
- Hours: Generally, visiting is possible from around 9 AM to 5 PM.
- Offerings: When visiting graves, bring flowers and incense sticks.
Maps and Transportation Information Around Choan-ji
Transportation Methods in the Hakone Area
The Hakone area is a tourist destination with well-developed transportation networks and various travel options.
Using the Hakone Free Pass allows unlimited use of the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Tozan Bus, Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Pirate Ship, and more, enabling efficient sightseeing. It is also convenient for accessing Choan-ji Temple.
Car rental is another option. It is suitable for those wishing to freely explore the Hakone area and efficiently tour multiple attractions. However, roads may become congested during foliage season and on weekends, so it is recommended to plan with extra time.
Transportation Information in the Kawasaki and Yokosuka Areas
Choan-ji Temple in Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City, benefits from convenient access via the Tokyu Denentoshi Line and the Tomei Expressway. The Tamaplaza Station area has abundant commercial facilities, making it convenient for shopping and dining before or after your visit.
Choan-ji Temple in Kurihama, Yokosuka City, is conveniently located within walking distance of Keikyu Kurihama Station. The Kurihama area is close to the coast, and you can enjoy a coastal walk after your visit.
Conclusion: Visit Choan-ji Temples in Kanagawa Prefecture
Kanagawa Prefecture has three Choan-ji temples, each with distinct characteristics. Choan-ji Temple in Sengokuhara, Hakone Town, is an attractive tourist destination featuring autumn foliage and five hundred arhat statues, while the Choan-ji temples in Miyamae Ward, Kawasaki City, and Kurihama, Yokosuka City, function as cemeteries rooted in their respective communities.
Select the appropriate Choan-ji Temple according to your purpose of visit and enjoy each one’s unique charm. In particular, visiting Choan-ji Temple in Hakone Sengokuhara during autumn foliage season will be an unforgettable experience. The collaboration between the five hundred arhat statues and autumn foliage boasts some of Hakone’s most beautiful sights.
Confirm the latest information in advance and visit with proper etiquette to make the most of your time. At Kanagawa Prefecture’s Choan-ji temples, enjoy history, nature, and moments of tranquility.
