The 400 year old Senkoji Temple was once a prayer temple for Emperor Gosaga but was severely damaged by a major typhoon in 1959.

The monks have struggled financially to rebuild the main hall as the number of parishioners and visitors has significantly declined.  Funding philanthropy projects is not common in Japan.  Grand Circle Foundation’s partnership began by providing funding to replace tea sets used during ceremonial tea services.  The largest project was a multi-year endeavor to replace the wooden handrails with ones of granite and restore steps on the main approach slope and lastly constructing a “hygiene stop” at the top of the hill.

Easier access attracted more visitors, and hopefully more donations to help fund a future reconstruction of the main hall. The goal is to preserve the temple’s historical and cultural heritage with the surrounding nature.