Minobu Kuonji Temple: Head Temple of Nichiren Buddhism, 400-Year-Old Weeping Cherry

Head Temple of Nichiren Buddhism

Kuonji Temple in Minobu Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi is the head temple of Nichiren Buddhism. A temple opened by Saint Nichiren in 1281, it is one of the most important sacred sites for Nichiren Buddhist worshippers. Located at the summit of Minobu Mountain (1,153m elevation) accessible by ropeway.

287 Stone Steps and Weeping Cherry

In front of Kuonji Temple's main hall are steep stone steps of 287 steps called "Bodai-tei." Climbing to the top of these steps reveals the main hall, giving visitors a sense of accomplishment. Several "weeping cherry trees" over 400 years old are on the temple grounds, with weeping cherry trees blooming late March to early April showing overwhelming beauty.

Minobu Mountain Temple Lodging Experience

Minobu Mountain has many temple lodgings (shukubo) where guests can stay and experience vegetarian cuisine, early morning religious services, and Zen meditation. Accommodation experiences deeply touching Japanese Buddhist culture are also popular with foreign tourists.