History:

is an important part of Japanese history and culture. It is a type of Buddhist temple complex, where a number of buildings including temples, shrines, a bell tower and a pagoda are found. They vary in size, with some having just one building, while others may have as many as twelve. The most famous ones are located in Kyoto, Nara and Kamakura. Some of the larger temples contain gardens, ponds and other elements of nature that give them an even more spiritual atmosphere. Chōkō-ji was first built in the Heian period and many were destroyed during the age of the Samurai. Today, more than 400 of these temples still exist throughout Japan. It is one of the best temple in Japan which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Chōkō-ji is located in the city of Nara, Japan. 2. It is a traditional temple, originally built in 711 AD. 3. It is a Tendai temple and a branch of the larger Kōfuku-ji temple complex. 4. The temple is known for its historic wooden buildings, which have been designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan. 5. Chōkō-ji is home to several priceless works of art, including a sutras box and a painting of Miroku, the Bodhisattva of Infinite Life. 6. The main complex was destroyed by fire in 1649, and rebuilt in 1663. 7. Its garden is considered one of the greatest works of Japanese gardening, featuring symbolic elements such as a pond and rock formations. 8. It is considered one of the most important sites for studying the development of Japanese architectural and garden design. Here are some facts about the Japan temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Japan

Worship Method:

The worship methods practiced at Chōkō-ji in Japan are rooted in traditional Japanese Buddhism. The main services held at Chōkō-ji are a Daily Morning Service, Monthly Memorial Service and Annual Grand Service. Other practices include meditation, sutra chanting, group prayer sessions, and special services on Buddhist holidays and during the summer months. At the Daily Morning Service, monks chant sutras and offer prayers at the altar in the Great Hall. After that, a recitation of the Heart Sutra dedicating to the ancestors is held. The Ceremony of Offering of Incense is performed, during which incense is offered while reciting the Sanskrit titles of the Divine Trinity. After chanting sutras, monks read out the announcements, make donations to the altar, and perform a service to serve amulets to the sick. At the Memorial Service, a meal offering is made with white porridge and sesame rice in special vessels along with a set of wine and incense. A service of memorial ceremony is held, and a prayer service is dedicated to the ancestor’s spirits. Following this, a Memorial Service Long Life Ceremony is held with the offering of incense and sutras. At the Annual Grand Service, the principal image of the Great Hall is enshrined and the Divine Trinity is venerated. A ceremony of offering of wine, incense and flowers is held, and memorial services are held for the deceased. After this, a memorial service with sutras and prayers is dedicated to each Buddhist god. The worship methods of Chōkō-ji focus on the threefold blessing of Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. These methods are designed to promote inner peace, understanding, and gratitude as a means of spiritual growth. By paying homage to the teachings of Buddhism, its followers can draw closer to the essence and spirit of the religion. This most visited temple in Japan

Opening Timing:

Chōkō-ji is open from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, the temple closes at 4.00 pm. top temples in Japan

How to reach:

Chōkō-ji is located in Anjo, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. You can reach Chōkō-ji by taking the Meitetsu Line from Nagoya Station to Anjo Station. From Anjo Station, it is a 15-20 minutes walk to the temple. Alternatively, you can take the Meitetsu Bus from Anjo Station to Doshu Anjo Higashi Bus Stop and walk for about 5 minutes. You can also take the Kintetsu Line from Ujiyamada Station (located in the city of Ise) to Iseshi Station, and then take the bus from Iseshi Station to Chōkō-ji. famous temples in Japan