Heirinji Temple

This historic temple is surrounded by the rich natural environment of Musashino in Niiza City, Saitama Prefecture. Heirinji Temple, a Rinzai Zen temple, was founded in 1375 in what is now Iwatsuki, Saitama City. It was later relocated to Nobitome in 1663 in accordance with the dying wishes of Matsudaira Nobutsuna, a senior councilor of the Edo shogunate.

The Nobidome Canal, which branches off from the Tamagawa Aqueduct, flows through the temple grounds, creating scenery where history and nature exist in harmony. Notable structures include the Main Gate with its distinctive thatched roof, the 350-year-old Sanmon Gate relocated here in the early Edo period, and the Buddha Hall, which houses a seated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha.

One of the main attractions is the expansive Heirinji Temple Forest, covering approximately 106 acres. Designated a National Natural Monument as a valuable cultural property preserving the character of Musashino’s woodlands, the forest offers walking paths surrounded by konara oaks, sawtooth oaks, and other trees. The scenery changes with the seasons, from fresh spring foliage to deep summer greenery and colorful autumn leaves. Along the paths through the woodland are sites such as Hōjō Pond and Nobidome-zuka Mound, allowing visitors to experience the characteristic landscapes of Musashino alongside the flowing Nobidome Canal.

The peaceful grounds offer a sense of Zen and the natural beauty of Musashino. Walk among the historic temple buildings and lush woodland to experience a landscape of Musashino that has survived into the present day.