Pass through the Sanmon Gate and ascend the Bodhi Staircase, visiting the Main Hall, Founder's Hall, and five-story pagoda at a leisurely pace
About this spot
The head temple of the Nichiren sect, founded where Saint Nichiren spent his later years, with grand temple architecture sprawling across the mountainside of Mt. Minobu. As you pass through the imposing Sanmon Gate, you face the 287 steep stone steps of the Bodhi Staircase. After ascending step by step, you reach the temple grounds where the Main Hall, Founder's Hall, and vermillion five-story pagoda stand in succession. Enveloped in cedar groves, the temple grounds are filled with a solemn atmosphere and are also renowned as a prime viewing spot for graceful weeping cherry blossoms in spring—a sacred space for prayer.
Tips
Entry to the temple grounds is free. The Bodhi Staircase is quite steep, so use the handrails and take breaks as needed. If concerned about stamina, you can use the incline elevator from the Seishin parking area to reach near the Main Hall. Don't forget your temple stamp book (goshuin-chou) if you plan to collect stamps. The gate town area has restaurants and souvenir shops.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 2 hours. Early morning has fewer pilgrims, allowing for quiet, peaceful worship.
Access & map
3567 Minobu, Minobu-cho, Minami-Koma-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture 〒409-2593
Model course featuring this spot
Sengen-ji Temple on Mt. Minobu and Ropeway Pilgrimage Walk
Yamanashi
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