Chorakuji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Joza, Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture. It belongs to the Buzan-ha school of Shingon Buddhism. The temple’s mountain name is Seiryuzan, and its temple name is Myooin. The principal object of worship is Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Healing.
With a history dating back to the late Kamakura period, Chorakuji has long been an important center of local faith. The temple is also home to numerous cultural treasures and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery that changes with the seasons.
Although Chorakuji stands along National Route 16, stepping through the temple grounds reveals a remarkably quiet and peaceful environment. The approach is lined with towering old cedar trees, while a garden behind the main hall offers seasonal flowers and tranquil scenery.
Chorakuji is believed to have been founded by Yugen between the Kagen era (1303–1306) and the Tokuchi era (1306–1307), during the late Kamakura period. It was originally established in Joza Hongō in Mōda District of Kazusa Province, an area corresponding to part of present-day Kisarazu.
The temple was later moved to its present location during the Eiroku era (1558–1570).
During the Edo period, Chorakuji became an important religious and educational center after a Jōhō Daranjo, a place for advanced study and discussion of Shingon Buddhist teachings, was established there. The temple flourished as a center of Buddhist learning in the region.
Despite its location beside a major road, Chorakuji offers a serene atmosphere once visitors enter the temple grounds.
The approach to the main hall is lined with old cedar trees, creating a picturesque walking path where visitors can enjoy the changing light, greenery, and quiet surroundings.
Behind the main hall is a garden filled with flowers that bloom at different times of the year. Each season offers a different view of the temple grounds, making it a pleasant place for a peaceful stroll.
Chorakuji preserves numerous cultural treasures dating from different periods of Japanese history. Among them are Buddhist statues, ritual implements, stone monuments, and works of art of considerable historical and artistic value.
Chorakuji also houses a number of artworks and sculptures of artistic importance.
Among these are a Painting of the Buddha’s Death and paintings of heavenly beings by Kondo Tokei, a Ju-Niten folding screen depicting the Twelve Devas, and sculptures by the celebrated woodcarver Nami no Ito, better known as “Nami no Ichi” in local tradition.
These works add another dimension to the temple’s appeal, allowing visitors to encounter not only religious history but also traditional Japanese art.
Chorakuji is also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot.
In spring, cherry trees add vibrant color to the temple grounds. The combination of blooming cherry blossoms and the old cedar-lined approach creates an especially beautiful scene.
The temple is popular with both photography enthusiasts and visitors enjoying hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of viewing cherry blossoms.
In addition to the designated cultural properties, Chorakuji preserves numerous other treasures, including Kondo Tokei’s paintings of the Buddha’s death and heavenly beings, the Twelve Devas folding screen, and sculptures associated with Nami no Ito.
Together, these works provide a glimpse into the religious culture and artistic traditions that have been preserved at the temple over many centuries.
Chorakuji Temple is approximately a 22-minute walk from the East Exit of JR Kisarazu Station.
Because the temple is located along National Route 16, it is also conveniently accessible by car.
Seiryuzan Chorakuji Temple combines a long Buddhist history with valuable cultural properties and beautiful seasonal scenery.
The peaceful cedar-lined approach, spring cherry blossoms, traditional garden, and collection of historic Buddhist treasures make the temple an appealing destination for travelers interested in Japanese history, religion, architecture, art, and nature.
Although it is close to the busy streets of Kisarazu, Chorakuji provides a quiet retreat where visitors can slow down and experience the atmosphere of a historic Japanese temple.