Gyokushoji of the Soto sect (Zen sect) was built as a family temple in the first year of Kyotoku (1452) by Higo Shugoku (Tamekuni), the 20th head of the Kikuchi family, on a hill with a panoramic view of Kikuchi City. In addition to the graves of Prince Tamekuni and the 21st Shigetomo (Shigetomo), the temple houses the “bell” re-cast in 1496, which is designated as a cultural property designated by Kumamoto Prefecture, the “bonbell” re-cast in 1789, the statue of 16 Arhats, and the flat plaque “Shinji” of the 8th Prince Narishige (Narishige) of the Hosokawa Domain, etc., and is loved by the community as a historic temple.

　This time, in addition to talking about the connection between the Kikuchi family and the Soto sect (Zen sect) Gyokushoji, you will experience valuable programs leading to popular mindfulness such as zazen, meditation, and breathing exercises.