Erin-ji（恵林寺）
Zen Gardens and Samurai History
Erin-ji Temple in Yamanashi is a quiet yet historically significant Zen temple, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the mountains. It was founded in 1330, when Nikaidō Sadafuji, the military governor of Kai-no-kuni, invited the renowned Zen priest and garden designer Musō Soseki (夢窓 疎石), also known as Musō Kokushi, to establish the temple.
Originally affiliated with the Engaku-ji branch of the Rinzai school, the temple was destroyed during the Ōnin War (1467–1477). It was later rebuilt when the Takeda clan selected it as their family temple. In 1541, Erin-ji became part of the Myōshin-ji branch of Rinzai Zen.
The temple is best known as the burial site of Takeda Shingen (武田 信玄), one of Japan’s most famous daimyō, adding to its historical importance.
Despite its size, beauty, and deep cultural significance, Erin-ji remains relatively quiet, with few visitors—a hidden gem for garden and history lovers. It features a small dry landscape garden and an expansive pond garden, both reflecting traditional Zen aesthetics. The pond garden is especially impressive, offering a tranquil view framed by seasonal foliage.
Inside the temple, visitors will find a nightingale floor—wooden boards designed to squeak when stepped on, once used as a defense against intruders such as ninjas.
Get the eBook now to explore the symbolism behind the gardens and uncover the story of Erin-ji’s spiritual and historical legacy.
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Erin-ji Garden Guide
This eBook offers insights into the design, symbolism, and history of Erin-ji Temple in Yamanashi.
Perfect for garden lovers, history enthusiasts, and cultural travelers.
Learn more before you visit—or revisit from home.
Gallery
Directions
How to get to the garden
From Shinjuku station, take the JR Chuo Line (中央線) to Enzan Station (塩山駅). With the Rapid train, this takes about 1hour and 25 minutes. From there take the bus and get off at the bus stop called “Erin-ji”.
Address
- EN: 2280 Oyashiki Enzan , Koshu City 404-0053
- JP: 〒404-0053 山梨県甲州市塩山小屋敷2280
Opening times
- 8:30 – 16:30
The treasure museum is closed every Thursday from December through March.
Admission fee
Temple
- Adults: 500 yen
- Elementary to High School Students: 300 yen
Treasure Museum
- Adult: 500 yen
- High School Students: 400 yen
- Elementary and Junior High School Students: 100 yen
Facilities & Accessibility
- Zen Meditation in Japanese only 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month from 6am
- Zen Meditation in Japanese only 2nd Sunday of each month from 3pm
You need to contact the temple in Japanese in case you want to participate.
- Erin-ji is not barrier free.
Best time to visit
- In late March/ early April during Cherry Blossom Season.
- End of November when the maple trees change color.
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