Kichijyou-ji Temple Renewal

This project involves the expansion of the main reception building at Suwa-san Kichijō-ji Temple, a renowned Soutou Zen monastery, and the era-appropriate renovation of multiple structures within its precincts. Located in Bunkyō Ward's Honkomagome area, the temple traces its origins to the Edo period, when Oota Dokan discovered a golden seal inscribed with "Kichijo Zojo" ("Prosperity through Auspiciousness") during the construction of Edo Castle. The temple was originally established near present-day Wadakura-mon as "Kichijou-an." After being destroyed in the 1657 Meireki fire, it was relocated to its current Honkomagome site. During the Edo period, it established the Sendanrin meditation hall, accommodating numerous monks studying Soutou Zen doctrines. Post-war reconstruction efforts restored the burnt Buddha halls, study pavilions, and main sanctuary, which remain in use today. The reception building expansion and renovation aim to preserve the historical Zen architectural principles of Soutou temples while creating spaces that warmly welcome devotees and monastic scholars.