⛩️ Kōsō-ji Temple (Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture)

Kōsō-ji Temple in Uji City was founded by Dōgen, the founder of the Sōtō school of Zen Buddhism, and is the first Zen temple in Japan. Established in the second year of the Kachō era (1236) in the Fukakusa area of Fushimi, the temple was once abandoned due to war but was rebuilt in the second year of the Shōhō era (1645) at its current location during the early Edo period. The most well-known feature is the approach path "Kotozaka," which is about 200 meters long and leads to the Ryūgū-zō gate. The gentle sound of water flowing from a small river beside the sloping path resembles the sound of a koto, hence its name. Visitors can enjoy the changing scenery with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves, making it a designated scenic spot in Kyoto Prefecture. The elegant style that blends into the natural landscape is a characteristic of Kōsō-ji Temple. The most popular attraction is the large study hall facing the garden, where one can gaze at the pond created by water drawn from the Uji River and enjoy a moment of relaxation and tranquility. Other highlights include the "Tezurō Kannon" related to the "Tezurō" chapter in The Tale of Genji, the "Blood Ceiling" from the ruins of Fushimi Castle, and the nightingale corridor in the Hattō. The monk's hall offers experiences such as zazen (seated meditation) and copying sutras. There is also a "two-day, one-night stay with meals" program called "Shukubō Zazen," where participants can experience life in a Zen temple.

The oldest training dojo among the 14,000 Soto Zen temples in Japan. The approach path "Kotozaka," renowned for its beautiful autumn leaves and cherry blossoms, is designated as a scenic spot by Kyoto Prefecture. There are several highlights worth seeing, including the Handwriting Kannon, the Blood Heaven Hall, and the gardens. The monk's hall offers zazen meditation, sutra copying experiences, and accommodation training experiences.