Chokoji Temple is a historic Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in Kawamoto Town, Ochi District, Shimane Prefecture. It is known as the family temple of the Iwami Ogasawara clan, which ruled the area for many years, and has played an important role in the history, culture, and religious life of the region.
The temple is also the 10th temple on the Iwami Kannon Pilgrimage, a Buddhist pilgrimage route dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion. Even today, visitors come to this peaceful temple to experience its long history and quiet atmosphere.
One of Chokoji Temple’s most fascinating treasures is the “Baku-head Jewel Pillow”, known in Japanese as the Baku-to no Gyokuchin.
According to tradition, the pillow was presented to Ogasawara Nagataka, the 12th head of the Ogasawara clan, by Ashikaga Yoshitane, the 12th shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, in recognition of his military achievements.
The pillow is associated with a mysterious traditional belief. It is said that sleeping with the pillow allows the mythical baku to eat away nightmares and bring pleasant dreams.
The baku is a legendary creature in Japanese tradition that has long been associated with the consumption of bad dreams. This unusual treasure adds an element of mystery and folklore to the temple, making a visit particularly memorable for those interested in Japanese legends.
Chokoji Temple is beautiful throughout the year, but its grounds are especially impressive in autumn. Large ginkgo trees grow around the temple, and when their leaves turn yellow, the entire grounds are transformed into a brilliant golden landscape.
The fallen leaves cover the approach to the temple like a golden carpet, creating an atmospheric scene that is both peaceful and dreamlike.
The combination of the historic temple buildings, golden foliage, and quiet mountain surroundings makes Chokoji a memorable destination for visitors exploring Kawamoto during the autumn season.
The temple grounds include a traditional sanmon gate built in the style of a two-story gate. Buddhist statues of rakan, enlightened disciples of the Buddha, and other stone Buddhist figures are displayed on the upper level, creating a solemn atmosphere.
The gate and other religious objects around the grounds offer glimpses into the long history of Chokoji Temple and the depth of Buddhist faith that has been maintained here over generations.
The temple also offers opportunities to experience shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine prepared with seasonal ingredients.
Rather than focusing on elaborate flavors, shojin ryori emphasizes the natural qualities of vegetables and other plant-based ingredients. Enjoying this type of meal in the peaceful surroundings of the temple can be a relaxing way to experience another aspect of Japanese Buddhist culture.
Chokoji Temple is a valuable place for discovering the history of the Iwami Ogasawara clan and the traditions that developed around them. At the same time, it is a quiet sanctuary surrounded by nature.
The combination of historical stories, Buddhist culture, traditional architecture, and seasonal scenery gives the temple a distinctive atmosphere.
For travelers interested in medieval Japanese history, Japanese Buddhism, traditional architecture, or local legends, Chokoji offers an opportunity to experience a quieter side of Shimane away from the major tourist centers.
Chokoji Temple can be reached in approximately 10 minutes by car from the former Iwami-Kawamoto Station on the San’ko Line. Although the railway line closed in 2018, the temple remains accessible by road and can be incorporated into a sightseeing trip around Kawamoto Town.
The temple is particularly rewarding when combined with other nearby attractions, including the historic sites and natural landscapes around the Gonokawa River.
Chokoji Temple brings together history, Buddhist culture, legends, and the beauty of nature. The story of the Baku-head Jewel Pillow adds a fascinating touch of folklore, while the temple’s connection with the Ogasawara clan provides a window into the history of medieval Iwami.
In autumn, the golden ginkgo trees create an especially beautiful setting, while the temple’s traditional buildings and Buddhist statues provide a sense of continuity with the past.
For visitors exploring Kawamoto Town, Chokoji Temple is a peaceful place to slow down, appreciate the surrounding scenery, and discover the stories that have been passed down through generations.