Zuiganji Temple

Zuiganji Temple (瑞巌寺) is a Zen temple located in Matsushima. It was originally founded in 828 by Ennin who was also known as Jikaku Daishi of the Tendai Sect of Buddhism. It was later transferred to the Rinzai Sect of Buddhism during the middle of the Muromachi Period. Over time Zuiganji Temple was left in ruin in the 16th century from the provincial wars. Date Masamune, Daimyo and founder of Sendai, decided to make Zuiganji his family temple. The reconstruction was completed in 1609 and it is said that the warlord even participated in rope stretching work. Craftsmen were brought from many different areas to create the Momoyama style that was prominent during Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s era of reign. The fusuma (sliding doors) were beautifully painted and gilded in extravagance. On the path to the main hall are lines of cedar trees, but there is a detour available that will take to numerous caves that were once used for meditation. The main hall and kitchen are both listed as national treasures, but the hall will be under renovation until 2018. Until the renovation is complete the Otamaya, the mausoleum for Masamune’s wife, will be available for public viewing. The Otamaya is usually off limits and not meant for the public eye.