The story of the 47 rōnin (masterless samurai) who avenged their master, Lord Asano – put to death after being tricked into pulling a sword on a rival – is legend in Japan. They were condemned to commit seppuku (ritual disembowelment) and their remains were buried at this temple. It's a sombre place, with fresh incense rising from the tombs, placed there by visitors moved by the samurai's loyalty.
There is a small exhibition hall (admission adult/child ¥500/250) with artefacts and a video (available in English) that illustrate the story of the rōnin .
