First Zen Temple in Japan Shofukuji is alleged to be the first Zen temple in Japan and was founded by Eisai, brought Zen Buddhism from China, in 1195. (He is said to have also brought back tea..) It contains the original temple plans, and a large Korean bell cats in the Kokuryo period. The temple is designated an "Important cultural property". It occupies only a quarter of its pre WW2 area, having been badly damaged.
There is a large piece of framed calligraphy at the gate written by Emperor Gotoba which reads "This is the first Zen Temple in Japan".
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