Butsuden
The Butsuden (Buddha Hall) is one of the most important buildings of Kenchoji Temple. The large statue inside depicts the bodhisattva Jizo, the main Buddhist deity of the temple.
Many buildings at Kenchoji, including the Butsuden, were lost in a number of devastating fires during the 1400s and 1500s. The temple was badly in need of repair, and lacked a patron as well. In the 1600s, the Tokugawa family founded the Edo shogunate (1603–1867) and began rebuilding Kenchoji. In 1647, they donated this building from Zojoji, their family temple in Edo (now Tokyo).
Because of its association with the Tokugawa family, the hall is more richly decorated than a typical Zen temple building. The ceiling features images of auspicious birds on a brilliant gilded background.
The Butsuden is designated an Important Cultural Property. It is open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation.