The Temple’s Origins and Its Connection with the Matsudaira Family
The site originally belonged to a Zen temple called Tounji. In 1664, Matsudaira Naomasa, the first lord of the Matsue Domain after being transferred from Matsumoto in Shinshu to Matsue in 1638, extensively renovated the temple to commemorate his mother, Lady Gesshoin.
The temple was renamed Gesshoji and later given the mountain name Kankizan. It was subsequently revived as a temple of the Jodo school of Buddhism.
Before his death, Lord Naomasa left instructions that his own grave should be established here. His wishes were honored by his son, the second lord Matsudaira Tsunataka, who built a mausoleum on the site.
From then on, mausoleums for successive lords were established here, continuing through the ninth lord, Matsudaira Narisai. Gesshoji consequently became the ancestral temple of the Matsudaira family, the lords of the Matsue Domain.
The Magnificent Mausoleum Gates of the National Historic Site
The mausoleums of the successive Matsue lords are arranged throughout the temple grounds and remain exceptionally well preserved. The site was designated a National Historic Site in 1996.
Each mausoleum gate reflects the architectural style and decorative preferences of the period in which it was constructed. The buildings also provide clues about the financial circumstances and aesthetic values of the Matsue Domain at different points in its history.
The Mausoleum of Matsudaira Naomasa, the First Lord
The mausoleum of Matsudaira Naomasa is the largest on the grounds and has an imposing structure surrounded by a moat.
The mausoleum gate was built in 1679. Its gable features intricate carvings of tigers and bamboo, and the gate has been designated a Tangible Cultural Property by Shimane Prefecture.
The Mausoleum of Matsudaira Harusato (Fumai), the Seventh Lord
The mausoleum gate of Matsudaira Harusato, better known as Fumai, is traditionally attributed to the renowned Matsue craftsman Kobayashi Nyodei. Beautiful openwork carvings, including motifs of grapes, can be seen on the gate.
Fumai was a famous tea master who established the Fumai School of Tea and helped make tea culture an important part of Matsue’s identity. His influence can still be felt throughout the temple grounds and the city today.
The Giant Turtle Legend and Lafcadio Hearn
A monument known as the Juzo Stone of Matsudaira Munenobu, the sixth lord of the Matsue Domain, stands on the back of a huge stone turtle.
According to legend, the turtle would come to life at night and wander through the streets of Matsue. Lafcadio Hearn introduced this fascinating story in his collection “Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan.”
Today, it is said that gently rubbing the turtle’s head will bring long life, making the unusual stone sculpture a popular feature of the temple for visitors.
The stone used for the monument is said to have been transported by raft across Lake Shinji and the Horikawa River. This story of transporting such enormous materials adds another layer of historical romance to the temple.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
The Mitamaya Mausoleum
The Mitamaya was built in 1798 and is a highly formal structure constructed in an elaborate style. Inside are wall paintings attributed to the artist Kano Eiun.
The building is opened to the public only once a year, on August 16, when a special viewing and visit are held.
The Present Main Hall
The present main hall was built in 1954. It houses a statue of Amida Buddha commissioned by Matsudaira Naomasa, the first lord of the domain.
A set of paintings depicting the Sixteen Arhats is displayed inside the hall, creating a solemn and peaceful atmosphere.
Daien-an Tea House
Daien-an is a tea house associated with Matsudaira Fumai and offers a glimpse into the tea culture that flourished under his influence.
During the annual Fumai Memorial Ceremony held each April, a ceremony is conducted to honor and ritually dispose of used tea whisks. This tradition continues to preserve the spirit of Japanese tea culture.
The Treasure Hall
The Treasure Hall displays valuable artifacts associated with the Matsudaira family. Among the exhibits are a portrait or statue of Fumai and a huge Nirvana painting, allowing visitors to see historical materials that are rarely found elsewhere.
The Hydrangea Temple of San’in: Beauty Through the Seasons
Gesshoji is particularly famous as a “Hydrangea Temple.” In June, thousands of hydrangeas bloom across the grounds, creating a colorful contrast with the temple’s historic architecture and quiet atmosphere.
The area around Matsudaira Naomasa’s mausoleum is especially impressive. Delicate lacecap hydrangeas add soft colors to the peaceful surroundings, creating one of the most memorable seasonal scenes at the temple.
Each season offers a different experience. Spring brings fresh greenery and the songs of Japanese bush warblers. In summer, the grounds glow with the lights of the Mantoue Festival. Autumn brings colorful foliage, while winter creates an especially quiet and dignified atmosphere.
The garden viewed from the study is said to have been restored by Fumai. Its restrained design reflects the refined taste of a tea master and provides a particularly peaceful place to appreciate the changing seasons.
Gesshoji as a Cultural Heritage Site
The Matsue Domain Matsudaira Family Graves within Gesshoji are designated as a National Historic Site. In addition, the mausoleum gate of Koshinin, associated with Matsudaira Naomasa, and the Daien-an mausoleum gate associated with Matsudaira Harusato are designated Tangible Cultural Properties by Shimane Prefecture.
The temple is a rare place where significant examples of history, architecture, sculpture, painting, and tea culture can be experienced together in one tranquil setting.
Access and Nearby Attractions
Gesshoji is located at 179 Sotonakabaracho, Matsue, Shimane Prefecture. It is approximately a 20-minute walk from Matsue Shinjiko Onsen Station on the Ichibata Railway Kita-Matsue Line.
Visitors can also take the Gurutto Matsue Lake Line sightseeing bus and get off at the “Gesshoji-mae” stop, which is located immediately near the temple.
Gesshoji can easily be combined with visits to Matsue Castle, the Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum, and other historic attractions in the area. Exploring these sites together offers a deeper understanding of Matsue’s history and cultural traditions.
A Peaceful Place Where History and Prayer Live On
Gesshoji Temple is much more than a sightseeing destination. It is a place where the history of the Matsue Domain and the prayers of generations of people continue to live quietly today.
The mausoleums of the former lords, the refined atmosphere of Japanese tea culture, and the breathtaking hydrangeas of early summer each reveal a different aspect of Matsue’s heritage.
Surrounded by history and seasonal beauty, visitors can experience a rare sense of tranquility that seems to transcend time. A visit to Gesshoji offers a peaceful opportunity to discover another side of Matsue beyond its famous castle and city streets.