Complete Guide to Seishoji Temple (Hokkaido) | Charm and Facilities of a Jodo Sect Temple in Teine Ward, Sapporo City
About Seishoji Temple
Seishoji Temple is a Jodo sect temple located at 1-19-35, Nishimiyanomori 5-jo, Teine Ward, Sapporo City. Its official name is “Jodo-shu Seienzan Seishoji,” and although it is a relatively new temple, having been founded in 2017, it is actively engaged in community-based activities.
As one of the Jodo sect temples in Hokkaido, it is characterized by its facility design and operation that meets the needs of modern society while preserving traditional Buddhist teachings. In particular, it employs a fully barrier-free design, creating an environment where the elderly and wheelchair users can visit with peace of mind.
About the Jodo Sect
The Jodo sect, to which Seishoji Temple belongs, is one of the Japanese Buddhist sects founded by Honen Shonin. The Jodo sect teaches that anyone can attain rebirth in the Pure Land by chanting the mantra “Namu Amida Butsu.” This teaching is simple and easy to understand, and has been widely accepted by ordinary people since the Kamakura period.
The history of the Jodo sect in Hokkaido dates back to the Meiji era’s pioneering period, when the faith was spread along with people who migrated from Honshu. Currently, there are numerous Jodo sect temples in Hokkaido, and Seishoji Temple is one of them, supporting the local faith.
History and Founding of Seishoji Temple
Founded in 2017
Seishoji Temple is a relatively new temple, founded in 2017. Its founding in Nishimiyanosawa, a residential area in Teine Ward, Sapporo City, was prompted by the population growth in the area and the local residents’ desire for a place of worship.
Teine Ward is located in the western part of Sapporo City and is a relatively new ward, created in 1989 by separating from Nishi Ward. The Nishinomiya-no-Sawa area is a rapidly developing residential area, home to a wide range of generations, from young people to the elderly. Taking these regional characteristics into account, Seishoji Temple was established with the aim of modern temple management.
Origin of the Name “Seienzan”
The temple’s mountain name, “Seienzan,” embodies the meaning of forging a connection to the Western Pure Land in the teachings of the Jodo sect. In Buddhism, the Pure Land of Amida Buddha is believed to be in the west, and this mountain name was given to the temple as a place to forge a connection to attain rebirth in that Pure Land.
Introduction to Seishoji Temple’s Facilities
Fully Barrier-Free Main Hall
The most distinctive feature of Seishoji Temple is its fully barrier-free design. A ramp is installed at the entrance to the main hall, allowing easy access for wheelchair users. The interior of the hall is also flat with no steps, creating a safe and comfortable environment for the elderly and those with disabilities to visit and pray.
The interior of the main hall is a bright and clean space, incorporating modern architectural styles while maintaining the solemnity of a Buddhist temple. The principal image is Amida Buddha, the central deity of the Jodo sect of Buddhism.
Multipurpose Hall
Separate from the main hall, there is a multipurpose hall used for memorial services, Dharma talks, and community gatherings. It features movable chairs, allowing for flexible use of the space depending on the purpose.
Equipped with air conditioning and heating, it provides a comfortable environment even during Hokkaido’s harsh winters, and various events are held there throughout the year.
Columbarium
Seishoji Temple has a modern columbarium. The indoor columbarium offers the significant advantage of allowing visits regardless of the weather, even during Hokkaido’s harsh winters.
The columbarium is a clean and bright space, with individual niches neatly arranged. We also offer perpetual memorial services, providing peace of mind for those without successors or those concerned about future management.
Regarding the use of the ossuary, we may accept people of all religious denominations; please contact the temple directly for details.
Parking
We have ample parking for visitors, making it convenient to visit by car. Located in Nishimiyanosawa, Teine-ku, Sapporo, the area is more easily accessible by private car than public transport, so ensuring sufficient parking space is an important point for visitors.
Main Buddhist Services and Events Held at Seishoji Temple
Annual Events
Seishoji Temple holds annual events in accordance with the traditions of the Jodo sect.
New Year’s Service
At the beginning of the new year, a service is held to pray for peace throughout the year. Many parishioners visit to pray for safety in the new year.
Spring Equinox Service
A week-long service is held around the spring equinox to honor ancestors. Many people visit graves and ossuaries during this period.
Obon Memorial Service
During the Obon period in August, the Urabon-e service is held to welcome and honor the spirits of ancestors. In Hokkaido, Obon is generally observed in August according to the Gregorian calendar.
Autumn Equinox Service
Again, the Higan-e service is held around the autumn equinox to honor ancestors.
Ho-on-ko Service
This service commemorates the death anniversary of Honen Shonin, the founder of the Jodo sect. It is considered one of the most important events for Jodo sect temples.
Prayers
Seishoji Temple accepts various prayers.
- Prayer for Family Safety: Praying for the health and peace of the family.
- Prayer for Business Prosperity: Praying for the development of the business.
- Prayer for Academic Success: Praying for success in exams and academics.
- Prayer for Protection from Misfortune: Praying for protection from misfortune during the unlucky year.
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth: Praying for the health of mother and child and a safe delivery.
- Prayer for Vehicle Safety: Praying for traffic safety.
Prayers often require advance reservations, so please contact the temple in advance if you wish to request one.
Dharma Talks
Regular Dharma talks are held where you can hear the head priest’s teachings on Buddhism and how to apply Buddhist principles to daily life. The content is easy to understand even for beginners, and it serves as a spiritual anchor for the local community.
Funerals and Memorial Services
Funerals
Seishoji Temple conducts funerals according to the customs of the Jodo sect. Leveraging our modern facilities, we can accommodate funerals ranging from intimate family funerals to larger, more traditional services, tailored to the wishes of the bereaved family.
Our barrier-free design ensures that elderly attendees can participate with peace of mind. Furthermore, our air-conditioned facilities provide a comfortable environment for saying goodbye to the deceased, regardless of the season.
Memorial Services
We handle various memorial services, from the seventh day to the forty-ninth day, the first anniversary, the third anniversary, the seventh anniversary, and so on. We also offer support for post-service meals, including recommendations for nearby venues.
Access to Seishoji Temple
Location
Address: 1-19-35, Nishimiyanosawa 5-jo 1-chome, Teine-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 006-0005
Transportation Access
Access by Train/Bus
Take a bus from JR Hakodate Main Line “Teine Station” and get off at the “Nishimiyanosawa 5-jo 1-chome” bus stop. It’s approximately a 3-minute walk from there. JR Hokkaido Bus operates this route.
Access by Car
Approximately 30 minutes from central Sapporo via National Route 5. Approximately 15 minutes from the Teine Interchange. Entering the address into your car’s navigation system will provide accurate directions.
Parking is available, making it convenient to visit by car.
Nearby Related Facilities
Shin-Zenkoji Temple
Shin-Zenkoji Temple is another Jodo sect temple in Sapporo, similar to Seishoji Temple. Located in Sapporo’s Chuo Ward, Shin-Zenkoji Temple has a longer history. As one of the central Jodo sect temples in Hokkaido, it boasts a large number of followers.
Its address is Minami 6-jo Nishi 1-chome, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, near the Susukino area. With a different historical atmosphere than Seishoji Temple, it is worth visiting both.
Other Temples in Teine Ward
There are several other temples in Teine Ward, each supporting the local faith. While their sects and histories differ, they play an important role as spiritual centers for the community.
Characteristics and Appeal of Seishoji Temple
Modern Temple Management
A major appeal of Seishoji Temple is its flexible management approach that responds to the needs of modern society while preserving traditional Buddhist teachings. Leveraging its relatively recent founding in 2017, it pursues a temple model suited to the times.
Consideration for Accessibility
The fully barrier-free design is a crucial element in today’s aging society. Creating an environment where everyone can easily visit aligns with the Buddhist spirit of “saving all people.”
A Temple Open to the Community
Seishoji Temple aims to be a temple open not only to its parishioners but to the entire community. Through Dharma talks and various events, it functions as a member of the local community.
Manners and Precautions When Visiting
Dress Code
While no special attire is required for regular visits, clean and subdued clothing is desirable. When attending a memorial service, choose clothing in subdued colors such as black or navy.
Etiquette for Visiting a Temple
At Jodo-shu temples, the basic method of worship is to join your hands in prayer in the main hall and chant “Namu Amida Butsu.” Bringing prayer beads is recommended.
Photography
Photography inside the main hall is generally discouraged, or requires prior permission. To maintain the solemnity of a religious site, please avoid loud conversations.
Contacting Seishoji Temple
How to Contact
You can contact Seishoji Temple by phone or through their official website. Please feel free to inquire about visiting the ossuary, applying for prayers, or consulting about funerals and memorial services.
Reception Hours
Generally, temple reception hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but these may change due to memorial services or events. It is recommended to confirm by phone before visiting.
About Teine Ward, Sapporo
Overview of Teine Ward
Teine Ward is a relatively new ward in Sapporo City, established in 1989 by separating from Nishi Ward. It covers an area of approximately 56.77 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 140,000 (as of 2024).
Nishimiyanosawa Area
The Nishimiyanosawa area, where Seishoji Temple is located, is a residential area spreading at the foot of Mount Teine. Development began in the 1970s, and it has now developed into a quiet residential area. Schools, commercial facilities, and parks are well-maintained in the surrounding area, creating a comfortable living environment.
Mount Teine and the Natural Environment
Mount Teine (elevation 1,023m), a symbol of Teine Ward, is popular as a ski resort in winter and as a spot for mountain climbing and hiking in summer. The area around Seishoji Temple is also rich in nature, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery of each season.
The Teachings of the Jodo Sect and Seishoji Temple
The Teaching of Nembutsu
The foundation of the Jodo Sect is the Nembutsu, “Namu Amida Butsu.” The teaching that one can attain rebirth in the Pure Land through the power of Amida Buddha’s original vow by chanting this Nembutsu has been widely accepted as an easy practice accessible to everyone.
The Teachings of Honen Shonin
Honen Shonin (1133-1212), the founder of the Jodo Sect, spread Buddhism, which had previously been limited to a select few such as nobles and monks, as a teaching that could save all people. This spirit is inherited by the modern Seishoji Temple and is reflected in its creation as an open temple easily accessible to everyone.
The History of the Jodo Sect in Hokkaido
Spread During the Settlement Period
The history of the Jodo Sect in Hokkaido begins during the settlement period of the Meiji era. The faith spread with people who migrated from Honshu, and temples were built throughout the region.
Modern Jodo Sect in Hokkaido
Currently, there are numerous Jodo Sect temples in Hokkaido, organized as “Jodo Sect Hokkaido.” Seishoji Temple is a member of this organization, cooperating with others in missionary activities.
Summary
Seishoji Temple is a Jodo Sect temple located at 1-chome, 5-jo, Nishimiyanosawa, Teine-ku, Sapporo. Although a relatively new temple, founded in 2017, it boasts fully barrier-free design and modern facilities, and is actively engaged in community-based activities.
As a temple that supports people at various stages of life, including columbariums, various prayers, funerals, and memorial services, it operates in an open manner not only to its parishioners but also to the entire community. While upholding the traditional teachings of Jodo Sect, Seishoji Temple’s flexible approach to meeting the needs of modern society is a major attraction.
Near the rich natural environment of Nishimiyanosawa, Teine-ku, Seishoji Temple offers a peaceful place for worship and is poised to continue developing as a center of faith in the region, serving as a model case for temples in a new era in Hokkaido.
