Complete Guide to Sōonji Temple (Taito Ward, Tokyo) | History, Access, and Highlights Explained in Detail
Sōonji Temple, located in Nishi-Asakusa, Taito Ward, Tokyo, is a historic temple belonging to the Shinshu Otani sect. Situated in a quiet residential area, slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of tourist spots like Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Engei Hall, it boasts a special history, connected to two high-ranking priests, Honen Shonin and Shinran Shonin. This article provides a detailed explanation of Sōonji Temple’s history, highlights, access methods, and other information you should know before visiting.
Basic Information about Soonji Temple
Temple Name: Soonji Temple
Sect: Shinshu Otani School (Higashi Honganji School)
Address: 1-6-7 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0035
Phone Number: 03-3844-5358
Corporate Number: 7010505000363
Mountain Name: Ryugezan
Former Name: Jokyoji Temple
Soonji Temple is one of five temples with the same name nationwide, ranking 2175th in the national temple rankings. Located in Taito Ward, Tokyo, an area with a concentration of historical temples, it forms a quiet religious and cultural area surrounded by many other temples.
History and Origins of Sōonji Temple
Origin of Founding: Mikawa Period
The history of Sōonji Temple dates back to the Kamakura period. Its founder was Sainen, whose secular name was Sasaki Saburō Sahee no Jō Moritsuna, a monk of samurai origin.
Initially, Sainen trained as a disciple of Hōnen Shōnin, the founder of the Jōdo sect. However, he later became deeply devoted to the teachings of Shinran Shōnin, a disciple of Hōnen Shōnin, and became his disciple—a unique career path. This experience of studying under two high-ranking monks is of significant importance in the history of Sōonji Temple.
Sainen founded a temple called “Ryūgezan Jōkyōji” in Mikawa Province (present-day eastern Aichi Prefecture). This was the predecessor of Sōonji Temple. The mountain name Ryugezan originates from the Ryuge San-e, a Buddhist ritual symbolizing the ideal world and representing the place where Maitreya Bodhisattva saves all sentient beings.
Relocation to Edo and Name Change: Genna Era
During the Genna era (1615-1624), in the early Edo period, Jokyo-ji Temple relocated from Mikawa to Hongo in Edo (present-day Hongo area, Bunkyo Ward). This period coincided with the Tokugawa shogunate’s urban development of Edo, and the relocation is thought to have been part of the “Temple Town Policy,” which gathered many temples around Edo Castle.
Upon relocating to Edo, the temple’s name was changed from “Jokyo-ji” to “Soen-ji.” This name change is presumed to reflect an appreciation for the founder, Sainen, and successive head priests. Hongo was the center of learning and culture in Edo, a district lined with many temples and samurai residences.
Relocation to Current Location: Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku
Afterward, Sōonji Temple relocated to its current location in Nishi-Asakusa 1-chome, Taito-ku. While the exact relocation date is unclear from historical records, it coincides with a period from the mid-to-late Edo period when many temples were forced to relocate due to urban planning and fires.
The Nishi-Asakusa area is located west of Sensōji Temple and has been known as an area with many temples since the Edo period. Even today, several temples are scattered around Sōonji Temple, maintaining a quiet atmosphere of religious culture.
About the Shinshu Ōtani School
The Shinshu Ōtani School, to which Sōonji Temple belongs, is a branch of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism, with Higashi Honganji Temple in Kyoto as its head temple. It considers Shinran Shōnin as its founder and inherits the doctrines of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism, centering on the teaching of “reliance on the power of others.”
Characteristics of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism
Jodo Shinshu Buddhism teaches that everyone can be saved equally by believing in the power of Amida Buddha’s vow and chanting the Nembutsu (invocation of Amida Buddha). It has several distinctive features that differentiate it from other Buddhist sects, particularly in the following areas:
- Meat-eating and Marriage of Monks: Since Shinran Shonin himself married, it is permitted for monks to marry and have families.
- Approach to Funerals: Based on the belief that the deceased has already been saved by Amida Buddha, funerals are viewed less as a ceremony to send off the deceased and more as an opportunity for the bereaved family to encounter Buddhist teachings.
- Interpretation of Precepts: Emphasis is placed on faith in Amida Buddha rather than strict adherence to precepts.
Higashi Honganji and Nishi Honganji
Historically, Jodo Shinshu Buddhism is divided into the Higashi Honganji lineage (Shinshu Otani sect) and the Nishi Honganji lineage (Jodo Shinshu Honganji sect). The Shinshu Otani sect, to which Soenji Temple belongs, is said to uphold the more traditional teachings of Shinran Shonin.
The Grave of Oda Tokunō
Soenji Temple is known for housing the grave of Oda Tokunō (1860-1911), a prominent Buddhist scholar of the Meiji era.
About Oda Tokunō
Oda Tokunō was a leading Buddhist and Shinshu scholar of the Meiji era, leaving behind the following achievements:
- Compilation of Buddhist Dictionaries: Involved in the compilation of the “Great Dictionary of Buddhism,” making a significant contribution to the study of Buddhism in Japan.
- Development of Shinshu Buddhist Studies: Modernized the teachings of the Shinshu Otani sect.
- Educator: Taught at Shinshu University (now Otani University), nurturing many successors.
Oda Tokunō is also known by his Buddhist name “Tokunō,” and his scholarship was highly regarded in the Buddhist world of the time. The presence of a grave at Sōonji Temple indicates the temple’s important position within the Shinshu Ōtani sect.
Regarding Visiting the Grave
While Oda Tokuno’s grave is located within the grounds of Sōonji Temple, it is recommended to check with the temple in advance regarding public access. Cemeteries are sacred places for remembering the deceased, so it is important to visit with quiet and respectful conduct.
Access to Soenji Temple
Access by Train
Nearest Station: Tokyo Metro Ginza Line “Tawaramachi Station”
- Travel Time: Approximately 2-3 minutes on foot from Exit 1 (Elevator Exit)
- Route: Exit the station and head west. You will arrive shortly after entering the residential area.
Other Available Stations:
- Approximately 7 minutes on foot from Tsukuba Express “Asakusa Station”
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line “Asakusa Station”
- Approximately 12 minutes on foot from Toei Asakusa Line “Asakusa Station”
Tawaramachi Station is one station before Asakusa Station (coming from Ueno direction) and is the closest station to Soenji Temple. The Ginza Line connects major areas in central Tokyo, providing access from Shibuya, Omotesando, Ginza, Ueno, etc.
Access by Bus
Toei buses and the Taito Ward Circular Bus “Megurin” are also available. The nearest bus stops are “Asakusa Kotobuki-cho” or “Tawaramachi Station,” both a few minutes’ walk away.
Access by Car and Parking
Sōonji Temple is located in a residential area, and it is recommended to check with the temple in advance regarding dedicated visitor parking. There are several coin-operated parking lots nearby, but due to its proximity to the tourist area of Asakusa, it may be crowded on weekends.
Access from Major Roads:
- Approximately 5 minutes from the Komagata Exit of the Metropolitan Expressway Route 6 Mukojima Line
- Accessible via Kokusai-dori from Showa-dori
Landmarks in the Area
Sōonji Temple is located in a quiet residential area, with several other temples scattered around. Walking from Tawaramachi Station towards Nishi-Asakusa, you will enter an area lined with temples; looking for the Sōonji Temple sign within this area should make it easy to find.
Sōonji Temple Grounds and Highlights
Main Hall
The main hall of Sōonji Temple is a building with traditional architectural style of the Shinshu Otani sect. The main deity enshrined here is Amida Buddha, and visitors can quietly offer their prayers in the main hall.
In Shin Buddhism, unlike other sects, the act of joining hands in prayer is not so much about “worship” as it is about “expressing gratitude to Amida Buddha.” While there is no need to offer a monetary donation, it is recommended to sincerely chant “Namu Amida Butsu” (Homage to Amida Buddha).
Atmosphere of the Temple Grounds
Sōonji Temple is a small temple, but it is located in a quiet environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The surrounding area is a residential neighborhood, and it is a beloved place of worship for local residents. The temple grounds are well-maintained, allowing for a peaceful atmosphere of worship.
Viewing the Exterior
Sōonji Temple can generally be viewed from the outside. The gate and the exterior of the main hall can be seen from the road, and photography is permitted (however, consideration for privacy and respect for a religious facility is necessary).
Manners and Points to Note When Visiting a Temple
Shinshu Otani School Temple Visiting Etiquette
In the Shinshu Otani School, the following temple visiting etiquette is observed:
- Gassho: Bring both hands together in front of your chest. Keep your fingers together.
- Nembutsu: Chant “Namu Amida Butsu” silently or softly.
- Ichirei: Bow deeply.
In Shinshu Buddhism, actions such as ringing a bell or lighting incense, as seen in other sects, are not mandatory. The most important thing is a feeling of gratitude towards Amida Buddha.
Notes for Visitors
- Please be quiet: As the temple is located in a residential area, please refrain from speaking loudly.
- Photography: Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds, but please obtain permission in advance before photographing inside the main hall or the cemetery.
- Dress Code: There are no specific regulations, but appropriate attire for a religious facility is desirable.
- Opening Hours: We recommend calling in advance to confirm the specific opening hours.
Buddhist Services and Memorial Services Available at Sōonji Temple
Sōonji Temple, a temple of the Shinshu Otani sect, offers the following Buddhist services and memorial services:
Funerals and Memorial Services
- Funeral: Funerals conducted according to the customs of the Shinshu Otani sect.
- Memorial Services: Annual memorial services (first anniversary, third anniversary, seventh anniversary, etc.)
- Obon: Memorial services for the Obon festival.
- Ohigan: Spring and Autumn Equinox Services
Other Buddhist Services
- Perpetual Memorial Service: Memorial service for those without successors
- Interment: Confirmation with the temple is necessary regarding the availability of a burial plot
- Buddhist Wedding Ceremony: Buddhist wedding ceremonies are possible in the Shinshu sect
For specific service details and costs, please contact Soenji Temple directly. The phone number is 03-3844-5358.
Nearby Temples and Tourist Attractions
Nearby Temples
In addition to Soenji Temple, there are many other historical temples in the Nishi-Asakusa area of Taito Ward:
- Sensoji Temple: The oldest temple in Tokyo, affectionately known as Asakusa Kannon (approx. 10-minute walk)
- Matsuchiyama Shōten: A Shingon Buddhist temple where radishes and drawstring pouches are symbols of faith (approx. 15-minute walk)
- Imado Shrine: A shrine considered to be the birthplace of the Maneki-neko (beckoning cat) (approx. 20-minute walk)
Nishi-Asakusa is home to a dense concentration of small temples, making it a great place to enjoy a “temple town stroll.” Each temple has a different sect and history, and comparing them while visiting them offers interesting discoveries.
Tourist Attractions
Within walking distance of Soenji Temple are the following tourist attractions:
- Asakusa Engei Hall: A theater where you can enjoy rakugo (traditional Japanese storytelling) and manzai (comedy duo) performances (approximately 8 minutes on foot)
- Kappabashi Kitchenware Street: A street specializing in cooking utensils and food samples (approximately 5 minutes on foot)
- Asakusa ROX: A shopping mall and hot spring facility (approximately 10 minutes on foot)
- Sumida River: A riverside stroll and a houseboat ride (approximately 15 minutes on foot)
We recommend planning a sightseeing itinerary that includes visiting these spots before or after visiting Soenji Temple.
Temple Culture of Taito Ward
Taito Ward is an area in Tokyo with a particularly high concentration of temples. From Senso-ji Temple to the temple district of Yanaka and Kan’ei-ji Temple in Ueno, the temple culture from the Edo period remains strong.
Main Temple Areas in Taito Ward
- Asakusa Area: A group of temples centered around Senso-ji Temple, a popular tourist destination.
- Yanaka Area: A quiet temple district around Yanaka Cemetery.
- Ueno Area: A group of temples associated with the Tokugawa family, centered around Kan’ei-ji Temple.
- Nishi-Asakusa Area: A residential area with scattered small temples such as Soen-ji Temple.
Nishi-Asakusa, where Soen-ji Temple is located, can be described as an area that falls somewhere between Asakusa as a tourist destination and Yanaka as a quiet temple district.
Shinshu Otani-ha Temples in Tokyo
There are many Shinshu Otani-ha temples in Tokyo, and Soen-ji Temple is one of them. The main Shinshu Otani-ha temples in Tokyo include:
- Tsukiji Honganji: A branch temple of the Shinshu Otani-ha located in Chuo Ward (though currently belonging to the Jodo Shinshu Honganji-ha)
- Asakusa Honganji: A Shinshu Otani-ha temple in Taito Ward
- Others: Multiple Shinshu Otani-ha temples exist in each ward
Shinshu Otani-ha temples are widely distributed throughout the Kanto region, with many temples in prefectures surrounding Tokyo, including Ibaraki, Tochigi, Gunma, Saitama, Chiba, and Kanagawa.
Frequently Asked Questions about Soenji Temple
Q: What are the visiting hours for Soenji Temple?
A: For specific opening and closing times, please contact the temple directly (03-3844-5358). Generally, daytime visits are possible, but there may be times when visits are unavailable due to religious services, etc.
Q: Is there an entrance fee? **
A: Soenji Temple is a temple for temple parishioners, and there is no entrance fee for regular visits. However, a donation may be required to participate in special memorial services or events.
Q: Can I get a temple stamp (Goshuin)?
A: Temples of the Shinshu Otani sect generally do not issue temple stamps. This is a policy based on the doctrines of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: You can photograph the exterior of the temple grounds, but you need to obtain permission in advance to photograph the interior of the main hall or the cemetery. Please also be considerate of the privacy of other visitors.
Q: Is there parking available?
A: Please check directly with the temple regarding the availability of a dedicated parking lot. There are coin-operated parking lots nearby.
Q: Can I request a memorial service?
A: Yes, it may be possible to request a memorial service even if you are not a parishioner. Please contact the temple for details.
Q: Can I visit the grave of Oda Tokuno? **
A: Regarding visits to the cemetery, we recommend obtaining permission from the temple in advance. The cemetery is a sacred place for remembering the deceased, so please visit with quiet and respectful conduct.
Summary: The Charm of Sōonji Temple
Sōonji Temple is a historical temple founded by Sainen, who had ties to two high-ranking priests, Honen Shonin and Shinran Shonin, and which was relocated from Mikawa to Edo. It upholds the teachings of the Shinshu Otani sect and continues to function as a place of faith for the local people.
The presence of the tomb of Oda Tokuno, a prominent Buddhist scholar of the Meiji era, further enhances the historical value of Sōonji Temple. Though small, it offers peace of mind to visitors in a quiet residential area of Taito Ward, Tokyo.
For those who wish to visit a quiet temple away from the hustle and bustle during their Asakusa sightseeing, those who wish to learn about the teachings of the Shinshu Otani sect, or those interested in Oda Tokuno, Sōonji Temple is a temple worth visiting.
Its convenient location, just a 2-3 minute walk from Tawaramachi Station, is another attractive feature. As part of your Asakusa stroll, be sure to visit Soenji Temple. The time spent praying in the tranquil temple grounds will be a precious experience that will allow you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
