A Temple with Roots in the Northern and Southern Courts Period
Kichijoji is said to have been founded in 1336 by Otomo Ujiyasu to pray for the repose of his father, Sadamune. The Zen monk Chugan Engetsu was invited to serve as the temple’s founding priest.
In 1352, the temple was designated as an imperial prayer temple by the Northern Court and was ranked among the “Shozan”, one of the prestigious institutional ranks within the Rinzai school. Over its long history, Kichijoji developed as an important temple and has continued to play a role in the spiritual and cultural life of Kawaba Village.
Highlights: Traditional Architecture and Cultural Treasures
The Irimoya-style Sanmon Gate and the Sixteen Arhats
The temple’s Sanmon Gate features an elegant irimoya-style roof and is decorated with intricate carvings. The upper level houses beautifully crafted statues of the Sixteen Arhats, whose detailed expressions and forms are particularly impressive.
The combination of traditional architectural beauty, elaborate craftsmanship, and the atmosphere of a historic Zen temple makes the gate a popular subject for photography.
Important Cultural Properties of Gunma Prefecture
The temple preserves several historically valuable Buddhist statues designated as Important Cultural Properties of Gunma Prefecture. These include wooden seated statues of Bushu E済 Zen Master, Kōen Meikan Zen Master, and Shaka Nyorai.
These precious works of Buddhist sculpture provide a glimpse into the temple’s long history and its importance as a center of religious culture.
Hyakka-en: A Garden Filled with Seasonal Flowers
The temple grounds have been developed as Kichijoji Hyakka-en, a garden where more than 100 varieties of flowers and plants bloom from spring through autumn.
In spring, skunk cabbage, cherry blossoms, and daffodils add gentle colors to the grounds. Early summer brings hydrangeas and Japanese lilies, while lotus flowers bloom in midsummer. In autumn, red spider lilies, toad lilies, and brilliant autumn foliage transform the temple grounds.
Because the garden takes on a different character with each season, visitors can discover something new every time they return.
A Tea Room and the Heart-Shaped Inome Window
In 2020, a distinctive Inome window was added to the tea room in the main hall. Its shape resembles a heart, while the traditional Inome motif has long been associated in Japan with warding off evil and inviting good fortune.
The view of the garden through this uniquely shaped window creates a particularly atmospheric scene. At the tea room, visitors can enjoy matcha tea and traditional Japanese sweets in the Edosenke style while looking out over the flowers and pond.
Sipping tea in the peaceful surroundings of the temple offers a relaxing opportunity to step away from the bustle of everyday life and enjoy the beauty of the garden.
Monzen Harukoma: A Traditional Annual Ceremony
Every year on February 11, the traditional Monzen Harukoma dance is performed at Kichijoji. The event has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Gunma Prefecture.
As part of this distinctive local tradition, young men from the community dress in women’s clothing and visit homes in the area. The custom is performed as a prayer for a good harvest and the safety and prosperity of households.
This unusual traditional event is an important expression of local culture and attracts many visitors each year.
A Romantic Photo Spot for Couples
Part of the temple grounds has also been selected as a “Lovers’ Sanctuary”, with a dedicated photo spot that is popular among couples.
Surrounded by seasonal flowers and the peaceful atmosphere of the temple, the romantic setting is ideal for taking commemorative photographs.
Access
From JR Numata Station on the Joetsu Line, take the Kawaba Loop Bus for approximately 30 minutes and get off at Kichijoji Iriguchi. The temple is about a 3-minute walk from the bus stop.
By car, Kichijoji is approximately 10 minutes from the Numata Interchange on the Kan-Etsu Expressway.
A Temple Where Flowers and History Bring a Sense of Peace
Kichijoji is a historic temple that has shared the history of Kawaba Village since its foundation during the Northern and Southern Courts period. Its elegant traditional architecture, valuable cultural properties, and Hyakka-en garden filled with seasonal flowers make it a rewarding destination throughout much of the year.
At this peaceful “Temple of Flowers,” surrounded by the natural beauty of Mount Hotaka, visitors can experience the history of Kawaba Village while enjoying the changing colors of the seasons.