Visit the ancient Mokkoku and Honkaku-ji in Ube City, Yamaguchi Prefecture

Five hundred years of ancient trees standing in the ancient temple

In Honkaku-ji in Nishi Ihan, Ube City, there is a giant Mokkoku designated as a natural monument of the prefecture. Although the age of the tree is unknown, according to the legend of the temple, it is said to have gone through five hundred years. With a height of 13 meters above ground and a circumference of 2.7 meters at the trunk, and with three trunks splitting from around 3 meters and stretching up to 11 meters, this scene is truly the dignity of ancient trees.

Quiet atmosphere in the precincts

In addition to this ancient Mokkoku, there are many large trees scattered throughout the precincts of Honkaku-ji. If you pass through the dense green trees, you will see a quiet main hall. The precincts, well maintained, allow you to feel the changes of nature throughout the four seasons.

Immerse yourself in history

The establishment of Honkaku-ji dates back to the Muromachi period and it is an ancient temple with a long history. The designated natural monument of the prefecture, the giant Mokkoku, can be said to be the existence that tells the history of the temple itself. Although the age of the tree is unknown, the legend says that after five hundred years, thinking about this tree makes one feel the weight of history.