⛩️ Wansong Mountain, Sōzen-ji Temple

Manjōzan Chōzenji, a temple of the Rinzai sect Kenchō-ji school, is located in the mountainous area on the western outskirts of Tōryū City. It is a temple embraced by the magnificent beauty of nature and has been designated by Gunma Prefecture as a "Green Environment Conservation Area." The temple offers picturesque scenery throughout the four seasons, captivating visitors with its lush greenery in spring and summer, as well as the vibrant autumn leaves. The back mountain is covered with deciduous broadleaf forests, and there is a walking trail called "Amida no Komichi." After worshiping, visitors can take a hike along this winding and rugged forest path, which serves as a test of willpower. The temple covers an area of approximately 33,000 square meters, and a striking feature within its vast grounds is the towering YITOHIBA tree. This 600-year-old hinoki cypress is designated as a natural monument by Gunma Prefecture and is a must-see attraction of the temple. The long history and culture of the temple are also part of its charm. Manjōzan Chōzenji was founded in 1205 by the disciple of Hōnen, the founder of the Pure Land sect, named Chinam. Since its establishment, the sacred lamp in the main hall has burned continuously for over 800 years. Many of the temple's buildings have weathered the passage of time without showing any signs of decay. For example, the first thing seen after climbing the stone steps is the antique mountain gate, said to have been built in 1727, along with the bell tower on the right side of the gate, which is recorded to have been constructed in 1753. The most notable feature of the temple is the "Main Image of Amida Nyorai," which is designated as an important cultural property by Gunma Prefecture. Built during the Kamakura period (1185-1333), this statue still exudes compassion as it stands in the Buddha hall. It is not usually open for viewing, and can only be seen during a special opening period from November 22 to 23 each year. Chōzenji also offers exquisite goshuin, making it a must-visit spot for goshuin enthusiasts.

The temple boasts magnificent natural scenery and has been designated as a "Green Environment Conservation Area" by Gunma Prefecture. There is an ancient tree, a Hinoki cypress, that is over 600 years old, which has been designated as a natural monument by Gunma Prefecture. The landscape is picturesque throughout the four seasons. Since the temple's establishment, the法燈 (hōdō) in the main hall has continuously burned for over 800 years without extinguishing. Visitors have the opportunity to see the "本尊阿彌陀如来像" (Honzon Amida Nyorai statue), which is designated as an important cultural property by Gunma Prefecture.