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Showing posts with the label Choanji Temple

Witness the 500 Arhats 五百羅漢 in Autumn Splendor

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Autumn's Embrace at Choanji Temple Choanji Temple ( 長安寺 ):  A Timeless Retreat: Founded in 1356, Choanji Temple ⭐is a serene sanctuary nestled amidst nature in Hakone, Japan. Its main hall, believed to date back to the temple's inception, exudes historical charm.  The Enchanting 500 Arhats: A highlight of the temple is the collection of 500 Arhat statues, each with a unique expression. These lifelike figures, crafted by contemporary sculptors, capture the full range of human emotions, from joy to sorrow . The statues are gradually being added to the bamboo forest, creating a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere.  A Seasonal Delight:  Choanji Temple  is renowned for its stunning seasonal beauty. In autumn, the temple grounds are ablaze with colorful foliage, offering a breathtaking spectacle. Photo Gallery On November 21, 2024, we visited  Choanji Temple  to witness its autumnal splendor. We were rewarded with a breathtaking sight: the 500  Arha...

A Peaceful Escape: Visiting Choanji Temple in Hakone

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  Enjoy the seasons in Hakone (YouTube link ) Autumn Colors Nestled in Hakone's Sengokuhara area,  Choanji Temple  (長安寺, Chōanji) is a haven of tranquility for  Zen Buddhism  practitioners and sightseers alike. This Soto school temple boasts several reasons to add it to your itinerary: Steeped in History: Explore the main hall, a testament to the temple's rich past. Tranquil Escape: Wander through a network of peaceful walking trails. Fall Foliage Spectacle: Witness the breathtaking display of autumn leaves, with maples reaching their peak vibrancy around mid-November. Unique Rakan Statues: Encounter over two hundred statues of Buddha's disciples (rakan) scattered throughout the serene grounds. How to Access Choanji Temple  is located just a two-minute walk from Sengoku (仙石) bus stop, which is served by Hakone Tozan Buses and Odakyu Buses. The one way ride from Hakone-Yumoto takes about 25 minutes and cost 750 yen, while from Togendai i...