Zuigan-ji

(Source : pixta)

Zuigan-ji was rebuilt in 1609 by Date Masamune, who ruled over this land in the Edo period. It has a characteristic structure that reflects the Anzuchi-Momoyama-Bunka, which was common back then, and its main hall, Kuri (kitchen building) and hallways are registered as national treasures. Furthermore, the gates of Onarimon and Chumon, and Taikobei wall are registered important cultural heritages. The paintings in its interior are especially gorgeous and transmits Japanese beauty and the artisan's techniques even today. Although there have been major renovations since 2008 due to subsidence, the main hall opened for visits in April 2016. The remaining construction is projected to be completed by March 2018.

(Source: pixta)

National Treasure: Kuri

Kuri is the kitchen of a temple and has a window on the roof to let out smoke. Usually, Kuri buildings are made to be functional; however, this one is characteristic in that it has foliage scroll sculptures and pursues beauty as well. It is counted as one of Japan's top three Kuri.

Exterior

(Source: pixta)

Interior

(Source: pixta)

Renovated Main Hall

The main hall has a large scale of 39.0 meters width and 25.2 meters depth. It has ten rooms including the Buddhist altar and there are numerous paintings on fusuma (Japanese sliding doors) and walls, as well as sculptures on the ranma (space between door and ceiling).

(Source: 行ってみたい神社とお寺)

Doukutsu Isekigun

Doukutsu Isekigun (cave remains) were made along the main road for worshiping and housing the bones of the dead. It is thought to be so because Matsushima was a place for worshiping the dead since ancient times; tombstones can be found inside the caves.