Tokoji Temple, nestled in the town of Yamagata in Gifu Prefecture, is set to host a unique nighttime event this June that combines historical reverence with seasonal natural beauty. Known for its centuries-old origin rooted in legend, the temple continues to captivate visitors with both its spiritual atmosphere and striking scenery.
According to local folklore, the temple was founded around the year 1501 after a Zen practitioner meditating in the nearby mountains witnessed a thunderclap and a dragon ascending to the sky. Interpreting the appearance of the mythical creature as a divine sign, a Zen temple was established at the site, which remains a place of cultural and historical significance.
While dragons have not reappeared, the temple grounds still offer a visually stunning experience—particularly during the upcoming “Shinryoku,” or “New Green,” event. For three nights from June 6 to 8, Tokoji Temple will transform its nighttime ambiance by turning off electric lights in its main hall and illuminating the fresh spring foliage surrounding the structure.
Lanterns will cast a soft glow over the temple’s traditional architecture, enhancing the contrast with the vivid greenery and creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Visitors will have the opportunity to capture the ethereal setting, with staff available to take photos using guests’ smartphones or cameras. Photography of the scenery and curated still-life shots of seasonal refreshments will also be encouraged.
Optional refreshments, including matcha green tea parfaits and chirashizushi—vinegared rice topped with locally sourced ingredients—will be available for purchase. The parfaits are priced at 750 yen, while the chirashizushi is offered at 1,500 yen.
Attendance requires a reservation, with a 1,000 yen (approximately US$6.90) fee per person. Reservations can be made online. Proceeds from the event will go toward the preservation and upkeep of the temple, an increasingly vital effort in rural areas facing declining populations and limited resources.
The Shinryoku event will take place nightly from 7:50 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., offering a serene escape into a luminous celebration of nature and heritage.
