Shougenji Temple, Fukui

Head temple of Gugan Shinshu founded in Meiji Era

Por Takako Sakamoto

Community writer

View of the Japanese garden and the main gate of Shougenji Temple

Wooden signage of Shougenji Temple in Fukui

Shougenji Temple's stone marker standing with colorful autumn leaves in the background

Before entering the main gate, you'll see the belfry on your left

The stone stairs leading to the belfry and the Japanese garden

Belfry surrounded by early autumn leaves

Intricate wooden structure of the belfry, and beautiful leaves turning yellow

Look up and you'll find the fine blue sky celebrating autumn

Looking at the Kuri building across the road through pine trees in the Japanese garden

Front view of the main building (Soshi-do)

Close-up look at the mausoleum (not open to public)

Closer view of the main gate seen from the Japanese garden

Recently I've been exploring my neighborhood looking for good objects to take photos of, and I found this temple by chance. During a usual exploration, I spotted a temple-looking roof, so I walked closer and found this temple, Shougenji, which is the head temple of Gugan Shinshu (one of many sects of Jodo Shinshu). According to the sign on the grounds, it was founded in the Meiji Period by the 23rd head priest of 'Jogenji' in Izumozaki, Niigata, the history of which dates back to 1301. The founder of this temple left Jogenji, came to Fukui, and established a new sect, which is now called 'Gugan Shinshu'. As a head temple, the grounds are spacious, beautiful, and well-maintained. I especially liked the pretty Japanese garden with a lotus pond in front of the main hall. Although lotus flowers were all dried up when I visited in early October, I'm sure they will be beautiful in summer next year! Fukui's Shougenji Temple Series 1. Shougenji Temple, Fukui 2. Beauty of Shougenji Temple: Fukui 3. Fukui's Shougenji Temple in Snow 4. Snow Garden of Shougenji Temple