2-7-20 Minamimachi, Shiroishi, Miyagi Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Kessan-ji Temple, located in Shiroishi City, Miyagi Prefecture, is the family temple of the Katakura clan, former lords of Shiroishi Castle. Founded in 1608 by Katakura Kojuro Kagetsuna, the temple features a striking statue of Kojuro in front of the main hall. Visitors can also see a Japanese cedar tree said to mark Kojuro's grave, a natural monument of Shiroishi City. The temple grounds include graves of Katakura family members and retainers, as well as a graveyard for the descendants of the Matsumae clan. The temple is a 20-minute walk from JR Shiroishi Station.