Daizenji Temple

Daizenji Temple (大善寺), also known as “Grape Temple,” is a Buddhist temple located in Katsunuma, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its association with grape cultivation, which is said to have originated in this area around the 8th century.

The temple’s main hall (本堂), completed in 1286, is the oldest surviving building in Yamanashi and the entire Kanto region. It is a designated National Treasure of Japan and stands at the top of a long flight of stairs. According to legend, the monk Gyoki founded the temple in 718 after encountering Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha, who was holding a bunch of grapes.

Within the temple grounds, visitors can find a multitude of impressive artifacts, including statues, paintings, and other religious objects. The temple also offers simple, family-run accommodation, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience temple life and savor the temple’s own label-less wine made by the head monk from grapes grown on the temple grounds.

Beyond the temple gate, there is a lookout point offering a picturesque view of the Kofu Basin and the Southern Alps. Daizenji Temple is a popular destination for those interested in experiencing traditional Japanese culture, exploring the history of grape cultivation in Japan, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.

Getting there

By Train and Bus

From Tokyo:

1. Take the JR Chuo Line to Enzan Station (about 90 minutes)
2. From Enzan Station, take a bus to Daizenji Temple
   • Journey time: 35 minutes
   • Cost: 300 yen one way
   • Note: Buses operate only every 2-5 hours

Alternatively:

1. Take the JR Chuo Line to Katsunuma Budosato Station
2. From there, take the Koshu Shimin Bus (Wine Course) to Daizenji Bus Stop
   • Journey time: 14 minutes

By Taxi

From Katsunuma Budosato Station:

• 5-minute taxi ride
• Cost: Around 1000-1500 yen one way

By Foot

From Katsunumabudokyo Station:

• 45-minute walk

Details

Hours	9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Reception closes at 4:00 PM.
Admission	Adults: 500 yen Elementary school and junior high school and high school students: 300 yen
Phone	+81 553-44-0027
Address	3559 Katsunumacho Katsunuma, Koshu, Yamanashi 409-1316
Official Website	https://daizenji.org/