This article explores the historical development and pictorial image of Rinzai-gokoku-zenji. From the critique and empirical research, it is found that Rinzai-gokoku-zenji can be traced back to its relationship with Japan, including its lineage, temple construction as well as stone statues, etc. Rinzai-gokoku-zenji was constructed in the period of Japanese rule. It was affiliated to Rinzai Sect Myoshin-ji School under the charge of the Japanese Monk, Mei shan xuan xiu. While the fourth governor of Taiwan, Kodama Gentaro, was invited to teach Buddhism in Taiwan, the building was expanded owing to the lack of space. Rinzai Sect Myoshin-ji School originated from the Huanglong Rinzai school which was brought back to Japan by the Japanese monk, Eisai, from his visit to China in Song Dynasty. Being protected and supported by Kamakura Shogunate, he began to propagate Buddhist teachings and establish Rinzai Sect Myoshin-ji School. Until the Edo age of Japan, there were 14 Rinzai schools, including that of Rinzai Sect Myoshin-ji School. They all belonged to the school of Bhuddism founded by the monk Kwan Shan Hui Xuan. Modern Japanese Zen Bhuddism is also derived from this school. Many branches of Chinese Zen Bhuddism were established after it was introduced to Japan. Among them, Rinzai Sect Myoshin-ji School was brought to Taiwan in the period of Japanese rule. After the restoration of Taiwan, Japanese monks went back to Japan and Rinzai Temple was taken over by Taiwanese Ben Yuan master. He became the eleventh abbot. The current abbot is Zhenguang Master . Rinzai-gokoku-zenji is Japanese style, adopting the structure of the buddhist monastery layout imitating the Zen building in Song Dynasty. It has been identified as a historic monument by Taipei city government. Now, except for the main hall and the bell tower of the old gate, the other structures has been replaced by steel and concrete. Rinzai-gokoku-zenji has its historical meaning. In addition to the building itself, the lineage inheritance, the big grindstone in front of the temple, the tombs of the founding masters of the temple, the stone sculptures of Buddha all have their significant historical meanings, especially the Stone Buddha of Taipei New Shikoku eighty-eight spiritual field.
