The temple contains the graves of the first, third, fifth, and all subsequent even-numbered lords of the Hagi Domain.
The 500 stone lanterns were donated by retainers of the Mori clan to honor the departed lords.
Tokoji belongs to the Obaku school, a branch of Zen Buddhism that maintains distinct Ming Dynasty-era architectural and ritual traditions.
The temple’s design adheres to the strict hierarchy of the Edo period's feudal funerary practices.
The site remains largely unchanged since the dissolution of the Hagi Domain in the 19th century.
Tokoji is a Zen Buddhist temple in Hagi, Yamaguchi, famously serving as one of the two family temples for the Mori clan, the feudal lords of the Choshu Domain. The temple is best known for its dense collection of over 500 stone lanterns that line the path leading to the burial grounds of the Mori lords. These moss-covered lanterns are lit twice annually during the Mandoro festival. The main hall is an Obaku-sect temple architecture characterized by its unique Chinese-influenced style. The wooden Sanmon gate serves as the primary entrance to the temple precinct. The surrounding forest and garden layout reflect Edo-period aesthetic values centered on tranquility and lineage. It is designated as a National Historic Site due to its preservation of the Mori clan's funerary heritage.
The long, shaded walkway lined by rows of stone lanterns, particularly when looking toward the mossy hillside.
Walk the gravel path slowly to view the intricate, varied stone carvings on the individual lanterns.
Visit during the early morning hours to experience the site without crowds and to photograph the morning light through the trees.
Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes, as the path to the burial site is unpaved and can be uneven.
Do not touch or lean on the historic stone lanterns, as the moss and rock surfaces are fragile.
Maintain silence, as the site includes active burial grounds and places of worship. Remove footwear before entering the temple buildings.
