Sōji-ji
Temple Major Zen Buddhist temple with extensive temple grounds
One of Soto Zen’s head temples near Yokohama, known for wooden halls, gardens and liturgy; visitors attend tours, meditation sessions and examine traditional temple architecture.
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Sōji-ji is a major Sōtō Zen Buddhist temple complex located in Kanagawa Prefecture, serving as one of the principal head temples of the Sōtō school.
The complex includes large halls, training quarters and temple gardens; it functions both as a religious training centre and a place open to visitors for ceremonies and occasional zazen sessions.
The temple has medieval origins within the Sōtō tradition and the present Tsurumi complex reflects reconstructions and expansions that occurred in modern times.
It is situated in Tsurumi, part of Yokohama in Kanagawa Prefecture, and is accessible from the city for those interested in Zen architecture and practice.
- Religious role: One of the two head temples of the Sōtō Zen school, the other being Eihei-ji. It regularly hosts ceremonies and formal training events.
How to Get to Sōji-ji #
Sōji‑ji is in Tsurumi, Yokohama. From Yokohama Station, take local trains or buses to Tsurumi Station and a short bus or taxi ride to the temple complex. It is accessible by public transport from central Tokyo in under an hour.
Tips for Visiting Sōji-ji #
- Visit the temple grounds early in the morning to avoid crowds and to hear temple bells and chanting.
- Observe dress codes and temple etiquette - modest clothing and quiet behavior are expected.
- Explore the surrounding trails and cemeteries for a fuller sense of the temple's place in local history.
Best Time to Visit Sōji-ji #
Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions; early mornings throughout the year reduce crowds and heat.
Weather & Climate near Sōji-ji #
Sōji-ji's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 31°C. Abundant rainfall (1608 mm/year), wettest in September.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 10°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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February
February is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (120 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (135 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (148 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 18°C. Heavy rain (201 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (161 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is the hottest month, feeling like 30°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (168 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 20°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (213 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (189 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm).
