Complete Guide to Eikoji Temple (Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture) | Thorough Explanation of Access, History, Perpetual Memorial Services, and Surrounding Area Information
Located in Iriya, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Eikoji Temple is a Jodo Shinshu Honganji-ha temple that continues to be deeply rooted in the local community. This article provides comprehensive information useful for visitors to Eikoji Temple, from basic information and access methods to history, information on perpetual memorial services and graves, and even information on nearby tourist spots and restaurants.
About Eikoji Temple
Eikoji Temple is a Jodo Shinshu Honganji-ha temple located at 3-2851-3 Iriya, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Because there are relatively few Jodo Shinshu Honganji-ha temples in the Kanto region, especially in Kanagawa Prefecture, it plays an important role as a center of faith in the area.
Temple Features
The most distinctive feature of Eikoji Temple is its modern main hall. This is a relatively new temple, founded in 1984 (Showa 59). It lacks a traditional temple gate, instead presenting the main hall directly. This open design is intended to allow local residents to visit easily.
While incorporating modern architectural styles, the main hall retains the solemnity of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, allowing for a peaceful atmosphere of worship. Although surrounded by residential areas, a quiet environment is maintained, providing a space for peaceful prayer.
About the Jodo Shinshu Honganji School
The Jodo Shinshu Honganji School, to which Eikoji Temple belongs, is one of the largest Buddhist sects in Japan, founded by Shinran Shonin. Its head temple is Nishi Honganji in Kyoto, and it teaches that by chanting “Namu Amida Butsu,” everyone can be equally saved by the power of Amida Buddha’s vow.
A characteristic of Jodo Shinshu is its emphasis on “faith” over precepts and ascetic practices, and the respect shown to lay followers is equal to that of monks. Therefore, Eikoji Temple is also focusing on creating an environment where local people can easily experience Buddhism.
Basic Information about Eikoji Temple
Location and Contact Information
- Address: 3-2851-3 Iriya, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture 252-0024
- Phone Number: 046-253-8730
- Sect: Jodo Shinshu Honganji School
- Founded: 1984 (Showa 59)
Visiting Hours and Fees
Eikoji Temple is generally open for visits during daytime hours. There is no entrance fee, but it is recommended to check with the temple in advance if you wish to participate in a memorial service or event. If you wish to consult about graves or perpetual memorial services, it is advisable to make a reservation by phone in advance.
How to Access Eikoji Temple
Eikoji Temple is located near the center of Zama City and is conveniently accessible by public transportation.
Access by Train
From Odakyu Odawara Line “Zama Station”
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot (approx. 430m) northeast from the east exit of Zama Station
- After leaving the station, proceed towards Kanagawa Prefectural Yatoyama Park, and turn left onto the narrow road before the Odakyu Line railway crossing to arrive at the main hall.
From JR Sagami Line “Iriya Station”
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Iriya Station
- Access via Zama Station is more convenient.
Access by Car
The area around Eikoji Temple is a residential area, so parking space is limited. If you are visiting by car, it is recommended to check with the temple in advance whether parking is available. There are also several coin-operated parking lots nearby, so please consider using those as well.
Landmarks in the Area
Eikoji Temple is located between Kanagawa Prefectural Yatoyama Park and Suzuka Myojin Shrine. The easiest route to follow is to descend the slope from near Kanagawa Prefectural Yatoyama Park towards Suzuka Myojin Shrine, and turn left before the Odakyu Line railway crossing. Located within walking distance of Zama Station, it’s relatively easy to find even for first-time visitors.
Information on Eikoji Temple’s Perpetual Memorial Services and Graves
In recent years, due to the declining birthrate, aging population, and the rise of nuclear families, the inheritance of graves has become increasingly difficult. Eikoji Temple offers options such as perpetual memorial services and tree burials to meet these needs.
What is a Perpetual Memorial Service?
A perpetual memorial service is a system where the temple takes responsibility for providing perpetual memorial services when there are no successors to the grave or when one does not want to burden descendants. Eikoji Temple provides perpetual memorial services based on the teachings of the Jodo Shinshu Honganji sect, allowing you to entrust your loved ones with peace of mind.
Individual Graves and Joint Graves
Eikoji Temple offers both individual graves, where cremated remains are individually interred, and joint graves, where the remains of multiple people are interred together. In individual graves, the remains are typically interred individually for a set period before being interred jointly. Since you can choose according to your and your family’s wishes, we recommend consulting with the temple first.
Costs and Visit Reservations
The costs of perpetual memorial services and graves vary depending on the method of interment and the duration. For detailed costs, please contact Eikoji Temple directly. Also, if you wish to actually visit the facilities, you can make a reservation in advance to receive a detailed explanation from the head priest.
Consultation on Grave Closure
We also offer consultations for those who currently have a grave elsewhere and are considering relocating it to Eikoji Temple or closing the grave. Grave closure involves various procedures, including administrative procedures and the transfer of remains, but the experienced head priest at Eikoji Temple will provide support.
Recommended Tourist Spots Around Eikoji Temple
When visiting Eikoji Temple, why not also visit some of the attractive tourist spots in the surrounding area? Zama City is a charming region where a rich natural environment and historical sites coexist.
Consultation on Grave Closure
Prefectural Yatoyama Park
Located within walking distance of Eikoji Temple, Prefectural Yatoyama Park is a vast nature park spanning approximately 30 hectares. Utilizing the valley-like terrain nestled between hills known as “yato,” the park offers opportunities to enjoy nature throughout the seasons.
The park features wetlands, woodlands, and rice paddies, supporting a diverse array of flora and fauna. Well-maintained walking paths make it ideal for walking and birdwatching. It displays different scenery with each season: cherry blossoms in spring, fireflies in early summer, and autumn leaves in fall.
Suzuka Myojin Shrine
Near Eikoji Temple, Suzuka Myojin Shrine is one of Zama City’s historic shrines. It has long been revered as the local guardian deity, and its tranquil grounds are a perfect place to find peace of mind. Visiting both Eikoji Temple and Suzuka Myojin Shrine allows you to pay your respects to both Shinto and Buddhist deities.
Shokokuji Temple
Shokokuji Temple, a representative ancient temple of Zama City, is located a short distance from Eikoji Temple. It is a historic temple said to have been founded by Gyoki Bodhisattva during the Nara period, and is also known as the eighth temple on the Bando Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage.
It is particularly famous for its hydrangeas, which bloom from June to July, and is also known as the “Hydrangea Temple.” The sight of approximately 5,000 hydrangea bushes adorning the temple grounds is breathtaking, attracting many worshippers and tourists. Although it belongs to a different sect than Eikoji Temple, it is a worthwhile place to visit for understanding the temple culture of Zama City.
Zama City Library
The Zama City Library, located near Zama Station, functions as a local information hub. It has a rich collection of materials on the history and culture of Zama City, and is recommended for those who want to learn more about Eikoji Temple and the surrounding temples and shrines.
Recommended Restaurants near Eikoji Temple
Enjoying the local cuisine of Zama City before or after visiting Eikoji Temple is highly recommended. A variety of restaurants are available around Zama Station.
Local Japanese Restaurants
There are several Japanese restaurants with a relaxed atmosphere around Zama Station. They are perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal after visiting the temple, and you can savor dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Especially at lunchtime, the set menus are extensive, allowing you to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine at reasonable prices.
Cafes and Coffee Shops
There are also quiet and relaxing cafes and coffee shops around Zama Station. They are perfect for taking a break with coffee or a light meal after a tiring walk around the temple. You can choose from a variety of options, from long-established coffee shops loved by locals to stylish cafes.
Bakeries
There are also several delicious bakeries scattered throughout Zama City. If you are planning a picnic at Yatoyama Prefectural Park, we recommend purchasing bread around Zama Station and enjoying your meal amidst nature.
Ramen Restaurants
Zama City is known as one of the most competitive areas for ramen restaurants in Kanagawa Prefecture. Around Zama Station, there are several unique ramen restaurants, some popular with locals and even those who travel from afar.
Events Held Around Eikoji Temple
Zama City hosts various events throughout the year, and it’s recommended to participate in them when visiting Eikoji Temple.
Zama City Sunflower Festival
The Zama City Sunflower Festival, a summer tradition in Zama City, is held annually from late July to early August. The sight of approximately 550,000 sunflowers in full bloom is breathtaking, making it one of the largest in the Kanto region. While it’s a bit of a distance from Eikoji Temple, it’s an event you should definitely visit when in Zama City.
Zama City Citizens’ Festival
In autumn, the Zama City Citizens’ Festival is held, featuring traditional local performing arts, food stalls, and a parade. It’s a great opportunity to experience local culture.
Temple Events
At Eikoji Temple, important Jodo Shinshu Buddhist services and events are held throughout the year. In particular, the spring and autumn equinox services and the Obon festival attract many parishioners and local residents. Participating in these events allows you to experience the teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism and feel connected to the local community.
Recommended Shrines, Temples, and Shrines to Visit Nearby
Besides Eikoji Temple, there are many other temples and shrines worth visiting in Zama City and the surrounding area.
Zama Shrine
Known as the guardian shrine of Zama City, Zama Shrine is the largest shrine in the city. Its spacious grounds feature a magnificent shrine building, and it is a place visited by local people for important life events such as New Year’s visits and Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children).
Sochuji Temple
Located in Zama City, this Soto Zen temple offers a tranquil environment where you can experience Zen meditation. Recommended for those who want to experience the teachings of Zen.
Temples and Shrines in Yamato City and Ebina City
Yamato City and Ebina City, adjacent to Zama City, also have numerous historical temples and shrines. In particular, Arika Shrine in Ebina City is considered one of the oldest shrines in Sagami Province and is recommended for those interested in history.
Hotels and Accommodations near Eikoji Temple
For those visiting Eikoji Temple from afar, or those who want to relax around Zama City, we also introduce information on nearby accommodations.
Around Zama Station
There are several small business hotels around Zama Station. They are the closest to Eikoji Temple and offer convenient access.
Sagami-Ono and Ebina Area
More hotels are concentrated around Sagami-Ono Station and Ebina Station, a few stops from Zama Station on the Odakyu Line. There are large business hotels and city hotels, offering a wide range of choices. Zama Station is also easily accessible by train in about 10 minutes.
Atsugi Area
Accommodation options are also abundant around Hon-Atsugi Station on the Odakyu Line. While it’s a bit of a distance from Zama Station, it’s conveniently located as a tourist base in the central Kanagawa Prefecture area.
Visitor Trends at Eikoji Temple
People who visit Eikoji Temple primarily have the following purposes:
Temple Members and Followers
Members of Eikoji Temple and followers of the Jodo Shinshu sect visit for memorial services and daily worship. The Jodo Shinshu sect strongly believes that “temples are open places,” and people other than temple members can easily visit.
Consultations Regarding Graves and Perpetual Memorial Services
In recent years, there has been an increase in visitors seeking consultations regarding graves and perpetual memorial services. Due to the declining birthrate, aging population, and the rise of nuclear families, traditional cemetery inheritance is becoming increasingly difficult, leading more people to consult urban temples like Eikoji Temple.
Local Residents
Residents of Zama City visit during walks or for daily worship. The temple’s open design without a main gate creates a welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to drop by.
For Temple and Shrine Visitors and Tourists
Some visitors to Zama City’s temples and shrines also visit Eikoji Temple. Many seem to visit it in conjunction with Hoshitaniji Temple and Suzuka Myojin Shrine.
Reviews and Reputation of Eikoji Temple
The following are comments from people who have actually visited Eikoji Temple:
Open and Inviting
Many people comment that “there is no main gate, and the main hall is immediately visible, making it easy for first-time visitors to enter.” The temple’s modern and approachable design, while maintaining the solemnity of a traditional temple, is well-received.
Convenient Access
“It’s only about a 5-minute walk from Zama Station, making it easily accessible by public transport,” is another point of praise. Its location makes it easily accessible even for those without a car.
Quiet and Peaceful
Many people comment that “despite being located in a residential area, it has a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.” It is valued as a space where one can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find peace of mind.
Courteous Service
Some visitors have commented that the head priest provided thorough explanations when they inquired about perpetual memorial services and graves. The temple’s flexibility in accommodating individual circumstances and wishes is highly appreciated.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting Eikoji Temple
When visiting Eikoji Temple, please note the following points.
Manners for Worship
Jodo Shinshu Buddhism has different worship customs compared to other sects. Basically, you should bow with your hands clasped while chanting “Namu Amida Butsu.” While it is customary to offer a monetary donation, ringing a bell or chime is not necessary.
Attire
For daily visits, no special attire is required, but please dress neatly and modestly. If attending a memorial service, appropriate attire includes subdued colors such as black or navy.
Photography
Photography within the temple grounds is generally acceptable, but photography inside the main hall or during memorial services should be avoided. If unsure, please check with the temple before taking photos.
Parking
As mentioned above, parking space is limited, so we recommend using public transportation whenever possible. If you are visiting by car, please check in advance.
History of Zama City and the Role of Eikoji Temple
Zama City is located almost in the center of Kanagawa Prefecture and has developed since ancient times as part of Sagami Province. Jomon period ruins have been discovered within the city, indicating its long history.
During the Edo period, it developed as an agricultural area, and after the Meiji Restoration, it also housed military facilities, giving it a unique history. After the war, it developed as a residential area and now serves as a commuter town for Tokyo and Yokohama.
Eikoji Temple, founded in 1984, is a relatively new temple, but it plays an important role as a center of faith in the region, given the scarcity of Jodo Shinshu Honganji-ha temples in the Kanto region. Its importance is further evidenced by the fact that it was built at the behest of Honganji Temple in Kyoto.
Jodo Shinshu Buddhism and Buddhist Culture in Zama City
In Zama City, in addition to Jodo Shinshu temples like Eikoji Temple, there are temples of various other sects, including Soto Zen, Shingon, and Tendai. Each temple contributes to the local community while upholding its own unique teachings.
Jodo Shinshu Buddhism centers on the teaching of “reliance on the power of others,” preaching the equality of all beings who are saved by the compassion of Amida Buddha. This teaching continues to bring hope and peace to many people in modern society.
Eikoji Temple engages in activities to convey these teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in an easily understandable way to people living in modern times, and holds Dharma talks and Buddhist lectures. Those interested should inquire at the temple.
Summary
Eikoji Temple in Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a Jodo Shinshu Honganji-ha temple and serves as a center of local faith and culture. The modern main hall, built in 1984, maintains tradition while possessing an open and friendly atmosphere, and is used by many people. Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Zama Station, Eikoji Temple can be visited for various purposes, including perpetual memorial services, consultations regarding graves, and daily prayers. The surrounding area boasts many attractive tourist spots, such as the Prefectural Yatoyama Park, Hoshitani-ji Temple, and Suzuka Myojin Shrine, making it possible to spend a full day exploring the area.
The Jodo Shinshu teaching that “all people will be saved equally” continues to offer hope to many in modern society. Visiting Eikoji Temple may provide inner peace and offer a new perspective on daily life.
If you have the opportunity to visit Zama City, please consider visiting Eikoji Temple. By offering prayers in its tranquil grounds, you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend precious time reflecting on yourself.
