Junnenji Temple (Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture) Complete Guide | The Charm and Visiting Information of a Historic Shinshu Otani-ha Temple
Located in Tenma-cho, Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture, Junnenji Temple is a historic temple belonging to the Shinshu Otani-ha sect. Despite its convenient location within walking distance of Ogaki Station, it maintains a tranquil atmosphere and is cherished as a place of faith for the local people. This article comprehensively introduces information useful for those considering a visit, from basic information and history of Junnenji Temple to the characteristics of the Shinshu Otani-ha teachings and nearby attractions.
Basic Information and Access to Junnenji Temple
Location and Contact Information
Junnenji Temple is located at 19 Tenma-cho, Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture. Tenma-cho is a historical area that retains the atmosphere of the Ogaki castle town and has flourished as a commercial and transportation hub since ancient times.
Basic Information
- Address: 19 Tenma-cho, Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture 503-0897
- Phone Number: 0584-81-2049
- Sect: Shinshu Otani-ha (Higashi Honganji-ha)
- Corporate Code: 6200005004565
Access Method
Access by Train
The nearest station to Junnenji Temple is Ogaki Station, served by the JR Tokaido Main Line, Tarumi Railway, and Yoro Railway. It’s approximately a 7-8 minute walk from the south exit of Ogaki Station, making it easily accessible.
The general route from Ogaki Station to Junnenji Temple is southwest, passing near Ogaki Castle. Since this route passes through the central urban area of Ogaki, you can enjoy a stroll through the area, surrounded by shopping streets and historical buildings, making your visit a pleasant experience.
Access by Car
If you are coming by car, it is about a 15-minute drive from the Ogaki Interchange on the Meishin Expressway. However, since the area around the temple is a residential area, we recommend checking parking availability in advance. There are also public parking lots in the center of Ogaki City, so visiting on foot from there is also an option.
About the Shinshu Otani School | About Junnenji Temple’s Sect
History and Characteristics of the Shinshu Otani School
The Shinshu Otani School, to which Junnenji Temple belongs, is one of the sects of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, and its head temple is Shinshu Honbyo (Higashi Honganji) in Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City. It considers Shinran Shonin as its founder and inherits the teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, which preaches salvation through the power of Amida Buddha’s original vow.
The Shinshu Otani School was established in the early Edo period when Honganji Temple split into East and West. Also known as the “Higashi Honganji School,” it is a large sect with approximately 8,900 temples nationwide. In Gifu Prefecture, particularly in Ogaki City, there are many temples of the Shinshu Otani sect, and Junnenji Temple is one of them, supporting the faith of the region.
The Core of Jodo Shinshu Teachings
The central teaching of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism is “other-power vow.” This is the idea that salvation is achieved not through one’s own power (self-power), but through the power of Amida Buddha’s vow (other-power). Shinran Shonin taught that everyone can be saved equally by chanting the Nembutsu (invocation of Amida Buddha).
The Shinshu Otani sect has the following characteristics:
- Nembutsu (chanting of “Namu Amida Butsu”): Emphasis is placed on chanting the Nembutsu, expressing devotion to Amida Buddha.
- Life of Gratitude and Appreciation: A life of gratitude is lived with the conviction that salvation has already been given.
- Lay Buddhism: Marriage of monks is permitted, and the sect has developed as an open form of Buddhism.
- Emphasis on Funerals and Memorial Services: Funerals and memorial services are valued as opportunities to remember the deceased and deepen one’s connection to Buddhism.
The Temple Culture of Ogaki City and the Position of Junnenji Temple
Overview of Temples in Ogaki City
Ogaki City is the central city of the Seino region of Gifu Prefecture and has long been known as the “City of Water.” According to 2025 data, there are as many as 246 temples in Ogaki City, making it one of the most densely populated temple areas in Gifu Prefecture.
The reason for the existence of so many temples is that Ogaki flourished as a castle town from the Sengoku period to the Edo period, attracting many people. The protection of Buddhism by successive feudal lords, including the Toda clan, the lords of the Ogaki domain, also contributed to the development of temple culture.
Concentration of Shinshu Otani-ha Temples
Of the 246 temples in Ogaki City, a considerable number belong to the Shinshu Otani-ha sect. Many Shinshu Otani-ha temples are scattered around Junnenji Temple, including Zennenji, Junkoji, Zenkyoji, Johoji, Sokyuji, Raikoji, Mannenji, Chotokuji, and Kakuzenji.
This indicates that Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, as a sect open to the common people, was supported by a wide range of social classes, including merchants, artisans, and farmers. Junnenji Temple also played a part in this Ogaki temple network and functioned as a spiritual pillar of the local community.
About the Temple Name “Junnenji”
According to a nationwide temple database, there are four temples named “Junnenji” throughout Japan, ranking 2,585th nationwide. The word “Junnen” is thought to embody meanings such as “chanting the Nembutsu in order” and “following the teachings of Buddha.”
In the Shinshu Otani sect, “nen” refers to the “nen” in Nembutsu (chanting the Nembutsu), and is an important concept representing devotion to Amida Buddha. The name Junnenji Temple can be said to embody the Nembutsu faith, which is the core of Jodo Shinshu teachings.
History and Culture of the Area Around Junnenji Temple
Historical Background of Tenmacho
Tenmacho, where Junnenji Temple is located, as its name suggests, is an area with a history as a post town during the Edo period. “Tenma” refers to the people and horses used to transport travelers and goods from one post town to the next.
Ogaki was a transportation hub where the Nakasendo and Minoji roads intersected, and the area around Tenmacho was a bustling place where many travelers and merchants came and went. In this environment, it is presumed that Junnenji Temple played an important role as a place for praying for the safety of travelers and as a place of worship for local residents.
Traces of Ogaki Castle Town
Within walking distance of Junnenji Temple lies Ogaki Castle (also known as Bakujo Castle). Ogaki Castle is a historical fortress known as the base of Ishida Mitsunari’s forces during the Battle of Sekigahara. While the current keep was rebuilt in 1959, the town layout of the castle town retains a strong Edo-period atmosphere.
In the old town area of Ogaki, including Tenmacho, traditional townhouses with lattice doors and storehouse-style buildings are scattered throughout, creating a historical atmosphere. Enjoying a stroll through this castle town in conjunction with a visit to Junnenji Temple is one of Ogaki City’s charms.
Characteristics of Ogaki, the “City of Water”
Ogaki City is known as the “City of Water,” and there are numerous artesian wells throughout the city where abundant groundwater springs forth. In particular, the “Ogaki Spring Water Group” has been selected as one of the “100 Famous Waters” by the Ministry of the Environment, and this high-quality water has supported Ogaki’s sake brewing and food culture.
Around Junnenji Temple, it is believed that well water was once used as a source of water for daily life, and the abundant water environment likely contributed to the maintenance of the temple. Even today, if you walk around Ogaki City, you can encounter spring water spots in many places.
Visiting Junnenji Temple and Temple Use
Etiquette for Visiting
Here are the basic etiquette rules for visiting a Shinshu Otani sect temple.
A Bow at the Temple Gate
When entering the temple, bow at the temple gate before entering the grounds. This is an act of respect for entering the realm of Buddha.
Visiting the Main Hall
In the main hall, clasp your hands together in front of the Amida Buddha statue and chant “Namu Amida Butsu.” In the Shinshu Otani sect, it is customary to quietly clasp your hands together without clapping.
Incense Offering Etiquette
When attending a memorial service, incense offering is performed twice in the Shinshu Otani sect. A distinctive feature is that the incense is not pressed against the forehead, but dropped directly into the incense burner.
Main Events at the Temple
Shinshu Otani sect temples hold various memorial services and events throughout the year.
Ho-on-ko
This is the most important memorial service, held around the anniversary of Shinran Shonin’s death (November 28th in the old lunar calendar). Many temples hold it from late November to January.
Spring and Autumn Equinox Services
Memorial services for ancestors are held around the spring and autumn equinoxes.
Obon Festival
This is a memorial service for ancestors held during the Obon period in August.
For specific event dates at Junnenji Temple, we recommend contacting the temple directly.
Consultation on Funerals and Memorial Services
Junnenji Temple conducts funerals and memorial services for its parishioners. In the Shinshu Otani sect, funerals are positioned as a way to send the deceased to the Pure Land, while also providing an opportunity for those left behind to encounter Buddhist teachings.
For consultations regarding funerals, memorial services, interment, and cemeteries, you can contact the temple directly. The phone number is 0584-81-2049.
Attractions and Recommended Spots Around Junnenji Temple
Ogaki Castle and Surrounding Facilities
Ogaki Castle, located about a 10-minute walk from Junnenji Temple, is a central tourist spot in Ogaki. The castle tower houses a museum where you can view exhibits on the history of Ogaki and the Battle of Sekigahara.
Ogaki Park is located around the castle and is known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. In spring, it is bustling with many cherry blossom viewers, and the contrast between the castle and the cherry blossoms creates a beautiful landscape.
Oku no Hosomichi Musubi no Chi Memorial Museum
Matsuo Basho’s journey along the “Oku no Hosomichi” (Narrow Road to the Deep North) concluded in Ogaki. The “Oku no Hosomichi Musubi no Chi Memorial Museum,” located within walking distance of the south exit of Ogaki Station, offers visitors the opportunity to learn about Basho’s connection to Ogaki and his journey along the Oku no Hosomichi.
The museum features exhibits of materials and videos related to Basho, allowing visitors to experience haiku culture. A visit to the museum in conjunction with a visit to Junnenji Temple is also recommended.
Ogaki’s Spring Water Spots
Along the Suimon River is the “Shiki no Hiroba” (Four Seasons Plaza), a waterfront space utilizing spring water. There is also a spring within the grounds of the “Kagano Hachiman Shrine,” where locals can be seen drawing water.
The “Funamachi Port Ruins,” near the “Ogaki City Local History Museum,” is another spot where you can feel the history of Ogaki, which once prospered from water transport.
Nearby Food & Souvenirs
Ogaki is famous for its “Mizu Manju” (water dumplings). These translucent Japanese sweets, sold only during the summer, are made using Ogaki’s pure water. They can be purchased at Japanese confectionery shops in the city. Furthermore, Ogaki is also known as a production area for “masu” (wooden measuring cups), and you can observe the masu-making process and purchase them at the masu workshop. They make an ideal souvenir for sake lovers.
Other Shinshu Otani-ha Temples in Ogaki City
When visiting Junnenji Temple, visiting the surrounding Shinshu Otani-ha temples will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Ogaki’s temple culture.
Zennenji Temple
Zennenji Temple, located at 102 Takeshima-cho, Ogaki City, is also a Shinshu Otani-ha temple. Although its name is similar to Junnenji Temple, it is a separate temple.
Renshoji Temple
Renshoji Temple is also a Shinshu Otani-ha temple located in Ogaki City and has a cemetery/burial ground. Those looking for a burial plot should consider this temple as an option.
Other Temples
There are numerous Shinshu Otani sect temples in Ogaki City, including Junkoji, Zenkyoji, Johoji, Sokyuji, Raikoji, Mannenji, Chotokuji, and Kakuzenji. Each temple has its own unique history and characteristics, allowing you to experience Ogaki’s history and culture through a temple tour.
Points to Consider When Planning a Visit to Junnenji
Timing and Time of Visit
While temple visits are generally possible throughout the year, checking the schedule of memorial services and events in advance will lead to a more fulfilling visit. The Hoonko period, in particular, sees many visitors, making it a good time to experience the temple’s atmosphere.
Spring cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season are also suitable for combining a visit with sightseeing, as you can enjoy strolling around Ogaki Castle.
Clothing and Items to Bring
For a regular visit, no special attire is required, but clean and subdued clothing is preferred. When attending a memorial service, semi-formal attire (clothing in subdued colors such as black or navy) is appropriate.
As for what to bring, it is recommended to bring a rosary (prayer beads). In the Shinshu Otani sect, a double-strand rosary is used.
Inquiries and Prior Confirmation
If you have specific matters to discuss, such as visiting the temple, attending a memorial service, or consulting about the cemetery, it is recommended that you contact the temple by phone in advance. Checking the temple’s event schedule and available times will allow for a smoother visit.
Junnenji Temple’s phone number: 0584-81-2049
Junnenji Temple’s Relationship with the Local Community
The Danka System and Local Community
Junnenji Temple is believed to operate based on the danka system. A danka is a family that provides economic and spiritual support to a specific temple. The temple conducts funerals and memorial services for danka families and provides a place for ancestral worship.
This relationship is not merely religious; it has also played a role in strengthening the bonds of the local community. Buddhist services and ceremonies at temples provide opportunities for parishioners to meet and interact with each other.
The Role of Temples in Modern Times
In modern times, with the declining birthrate, aging population, and increasing nuclear families, the role of temples is also changing. Beyond traditional funerals and memorial services, temples are required to address diverse needs such as end-of-life planning consultations, grave inheritance issues, and grave closures.
Junnenji Temple is believed to continue functioning as a spiritual haven for the local community while adapting to these changing times.
Temple Architecture as Cultural Assets
Some temples in Ogaki City possess historically valuable buildings and cultural assets. While information on Junnenji Temple’s architecture and possessions is limited, it is presumed to exhibit characteristics of Shinshu Otani sect temple architecture.
The main hall of a Shinshu Otani sect temple is generally divided into an inner sanctuary where the Amida Buddha is enshrined and an outer sanctuary where worshippers sit. Some temples also have a Miei-do hall where the image of Shinran Shonin is enshrined.
Combining Ogaki City Sightseeing and Junnenji Temple Visit
Half-Day Course Suggestion
Here is an example of a half-day sightseeing course starting from Ogaki Station.
- Arrive at Ogaki Station (10:00 AM)
- Visit Junnenji Temple (7-minute walk, 30 minutes total)
- Visit Ogaki Castle (10-minute walk, 60 minutes total)
- Stroll along the Suimon River and visit spring water spots (30 minutes on foot)
- Lunch (Enjoy Ogaki’s local cuisine, 60 minutes total)
- Oku no Hosomichi Musubi no Chi Memorial Museum (45 minutes on foot)
- Return to Ogaki Station (around 2:30 PM)
This course allows you to efficiently visit temples and major tourist spots in Ogaki.
Full-Day Course Suggestion
If you have more time, the following full-day course is also recommended.
In the morning, you can participate in the half-day course described above. In the afternoon, you can visit Yoro Park (Yoro Falls) via the Yoro Railway or tour Sumimata Ichiyajo Castle (Sumimata-cho, Ogaki City). A “temple pilgrimage” visiting several temples in Ogaki City is also an attractive option for those interested in Buddhist culture.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
This is the season when the cherry blossoms in Ogaki Park and along the Suimon River are beautiful. The best time to see them is early April.
Summer (June-August)
This is the season to enjoy Mizu Manju (water dumplings). Also, at the Ogaki Festival in August, you can see the Yama (float) procession, which is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Autumn (September-November)
This is the season of autumn leaves, and the area around Ogaki Castle and the temple grounds are ablaze with color. It is also the time for the Hoonko (memorial service).
Winter (December-February)
This is a season with relatively few tourists, allowing for a peaceful temple visit.
Summary: The Significance of Visiting Junnenji Temple
Junnenji Temple is a Shinshu Otani sect temple embodying the history and culture of Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture. Conveniently located within walking distance of Ogaki Station, it is a quiet place of worship deeply rooted in the community.
The spirit of “reliance on the power of others,” a teaching of the Shinshu Otani sect, offers peace of mind and guidance for those of us living in modern times. A visit to Junnenji Temple is not merely sightseeing; it will be an opportunity to reflect on oneself and renew gratitude to one’s ancestors.
Ogaki City boasts 246 temples, each with its own unique history and characteristics. Starting from Junnenji Temple, exploring Ogaki’s temple culture, castle town history, and the charm of its waterfront will lead to a deeper understanding of Ogaki.
When planning your visit, please contact the temple in advance to check the schedule of events and be sure to observe proper etiquette. We hope that the peaceful time spent at Junnenji Temple will be a enriching experience for all visitors.
As a first step in your journey to experience the history and culture of Ogaki and the teachings of the Shinshu Otani sect, we encourage you to visit Junnenji Temple.
