Houfukuji

Houfukuji is an ancient temple of the Rinzai sect located in Isojirono, Soja, famous for being where the renowned artist Sesshu trained during his youth. Founded in the Kamakura period, this venerable temple has a long history as a Zen training monastery. The legend of the "Tears Mouse," where Sesshu is said to have painted a mouse with tears, is particularly famous, and many people visit as if praying to a deity of art and learning. The temple also features beautiful gardens where visitors can enjoy the changing seasons. It is a perfect sacred place for those wishing to refine their artistic sensibility.