Complete Guide to Chōenji Temples | A Thorough Explanation of the History, Access, and Highlights of Chōenji Temples Nationwide
There are several temples named “Chōenji” throughout Japan. Each has a different history and cultural assets, and continues to attract many worshippers as a center of local faith. This article provides a thorough explanation of the historical background, cultural assets, access methods, and highlights of Chōenji temples throughout Japan.
What is Chōenji?
Chōenji temples are found throughout Japan, mainly belonging to the Nichiren and Shingon sects. The name “Chōen” originates from Buddhist terms such as “eternity” and “eternity,” expressing a temporal expanse and symbolizing the permanence of Buddhist teachings. Currently, there are temples named Chōenji in various parts of Japan, including Nagai City in Yamagata Prefecture, Fuji City in Shizuoka Prefecture, Amagasaki City in Hyogo Prefecture, Taito Ward and Ota Ward in Tokyo, Iwakura City in Aichi Prefecture, and Tsuruga City in Fukui Prefecture.
Each Chōenji temple has its own unique founding history and is deeply intertwined with the local culture and beliefs. The sects are also diverse, including Nichiren Buddhism, Shingon Chizan, and Shingon Buzan, and each temple possesses its own distinctive characteristics.
Chōenji Temple in Nagai City, Yamagata Prefecture
History and Founding
Located in Kitamachi, Tate-machi, Nagai City, Yamagata Prefecture, Chōenji Temple has a history dating back to the Muromachi period. It is believed to have begun in 1343 (Kōei 2nd year / Kōkoku 4th year), when Ōsuga Nagatomo, a vassal of Nagai Tokihiro and a powerful local figure, built Chōenji Temple within his residence as the Ōsuga family’s ancestral temple.
Initially named “Chōenji,” it was later renamed “Chōenji.” This region was under the control of the Nagai clan and experienced a turbulent history, including being under the influence of the Date and Mogami clans during the Sengoku period. Chōonji Temple, having witnessed the changing times, is an important presence that tells the history of the region.
Present-day Chōonji Temple and its Attractions as a Tourist Spot
Present-day Chōonji Temple is known as a tourist spot in the Okitama region. While the buildings on the temple grounds, including the main hall, possess historical value, they continue to function as a place of worship for local residents. The surrounding area retains the historical streetscape of Nagai City, allowing visitors to experience local culture in conjunction with a temple visit.
Access Information
To reach Chōonji Temple in Nagai City, Yamagata Prefecture, take the JR Yamagata Shinkansen to Akayu Station, transfer to the Flower Nagai Line, and get off at Nagai Station. From there, you can access the temple on foot or by taxi. Nagai City is known as the “City of Water, Greenery, and Flowers,” and is a region where you can enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the seasons.
Jōonji Temple, Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture
A Famous Temple of the Rokujō School of Nichiren Buddhism
Jōonji Temple, located in Teramachi, Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture, is a Buddhist temple of the Nichiren sect, with the mountain name Daigyōzan. It is a former branch temple of the head temple Honkokuji (Rokujō School) and is known as one of the three Rokujō School temples (the others being Chōmanji and Chōgenji). It belongs to the Shinshi Hōen lineage and is a prestigious temple with Chūseiin as its sub-temple.
Historical Background
Jōonji Temple in Amagasaki City is believed to have been founded during the Keichō era and prospered throughout the Edo period along with the development of Amagasaki Castle town. Amagasaki was a key transportation hub connecting Osaka and Kyoto, and a temple district was formed where many temples gathered. Jōonji Temple played a central role in supporting the local faith.
Cultural Properties and Highlights
The main hall was rebuilt during the Showa period, but it retains the traditional architectural style of Nichiren Buddhist temples. Historical stone monuments and gravestones remain on the temple grounds, providing valuable historical resources for understanding Amagasaki’s history. Many other temples are scattered throughout the Teramachi area, making it a popular route for temple hopping.
Access Information
Approximately a 15-minute walk from Hanshin Electric Railway Amagasaki Station, or a short bus ride from JR Amagasaki Station, getting off at Teramachi. Amagasaki’s Teramachi area retains a historical atmosphere and is ideal for strolling.
Jōonji Temple, Taito Ward, Tokyo
One of the Three Great Founding Temples of Edo
Jōonji Temple, located in Motoasakusa, Taito Ward, Tokyo, is a Nichiren Buddhist temple with the mountain name Anryūzan. Known as the founder of Tsuchifuten (Nichiren Daibosatsu, the self-awakening Nichiren Bodhisattva of good fortune), and one of the ten great founders of Edo, it is counted as one of the three great founders of Edo, alongside Ikegami Honmonji and Horinouchi Myohoji.
Prosperity in the Edo Period
During the Edo period, Chōonji Temple attracted the faith of ordinary people, and was especially popular among merchants and craftsmen as “the founder of Tsuchifuten.” It was believed to bring good fortune and business prosperity, and was bustling with many worshippers. Even today, it functions as a quiet place of prayer in the heart of the city, in the former Asakusa area.
Current Appearance
Many buildings were destroyed by fire during World War II, but they were rebuilt after the war, and the current main hall was built during the Showa period. Despite being in the city center, the temple grounds maintain a tranquil atmosphere and serve as a place of relaxation for local residents.
Access Information
Approximately a 5-minute walk from Inaricho Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, or approximately a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station on the JR Yamanote Line. Located near Asakusa and Ueno, it’s a convenient stop during sightseeing.
Choonji Temple, Ota Ward, Tokyo
An Ancient Temple of the Shingon Chizan School
Choonji Temple, located in Ota Ward, Tokyo, is a temple of the Shingon Chizan School. Note that its pronunciation differs from that of Choonji Temple in Taito Ward. It is said to have been founded in 1108 (Tenjin 1) by Yuzon, making it an ancient temple with a history of over 900 years.
History of Relocation
Initially located in a different part of Magome Village, it was moved to its current location in 1502 (Bunki 2). This relocation is thought to have been due to the reorganization of the village and changes in transportation routes at the time.
One of the “New 100 Views of Ota Ward”
Choonji Temple has been selected as one of the “New 100 Views of Ota Ward,” and is an important element in the historical landscape of the area. The temple grounds retain ancient trees and stone structures, providing a valuable historical space in the increasingly urbanized Ota Ward.
Access Information
Approximately a 10-minute walk from Nishimagome Station on the Toei Asakusa Line. Located in a residential area of Ota Ward, it offers a peaceful environment for worship.
Chōonji Temple, Iwakura City, Aichi Prefecture
A Temple Open to the Community
Chōonji Temple, located in Yatsurugi-cho, Iwakura City, Aichi Prefecture, is a Nichiren Buddhist temple that actively engages with the local community. Currently, temple staff actively disseminate information through social media, making it a temple that is easily accessible to younger generations.
Goshudai (Temple Seals) and Visitor Information
Chōonji Temple accepts Goshudai (temple seals), allowing visitors to receive the unique Nichiren Buddhist calligraphy and stamps. Reception hours are from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM and from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM; prior inquiry is recommended.
Modern Temple Management
Utilizing social media such as Instagram to disseminate information is refreshing the traditional image of temples and building new relationships with the local community. Seasonal events and the temple grounds are regularly posted, allowing people to learn about the temple’s current activities.
Access Information
Approximately a 15-minute walk from Iwakura Station on the Meitetsu Inuyama Line. Iwakura City is located north of Nagoya City, making it easily accessible.
Chōonji Temple, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Under the Jurisdiction of the Nichiren Sect Shizuoka Central Office
Located in Mitsuzawa, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Chōonji Temple is under the jurisdiction of the Nichiren Sect Shizuoka Central Office. Situated in a naturally rich environment at the foot of Mt. Fuji, it functions as a center of local faith.
Buddhist Culture in the Fuji Region
The area around Fuji City has long been a region where Buddhist culture, linked to the worship of Mt. Fuji, flourished, and Chōonji Temple has played a part in this. It continues to be used as a venue for memorial services and annual events for local residents.
Access Information
Accessible by bus or taxi from JR Tokaido Main Line Fuji Station or Shin-Fuji Station. The area offers views of Mt. Fuji.
Chōenji Temple, Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture
Temple Associated with the Mito Tengu Party
Chōenji Temple, located in Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture, is known as an independent temple, but its most notable feature is its connection to the Mito Tengu Party during the late Edo period. In 1864 (Genji 1), when the Mito Tengu Party, who had raised an army at Mt. Tsukuba, advanced westward towards Kyoto and finally surrendered in Tsuruga, Chōenji Temple was one of the three temples where they were taken in.
Stage of a Historical Event
90 members of the Mito Tengu Party were taken in at Chōenji Temple. While their treatment at the temple was relatively generous, they were later handed over to the shogunate and met a tragic end, with many being executed in Funamachi, Tsuruga. This event is remembered as an important episode in the history of the late Edo period.
Cultural Properties and Memorials
The temple grounds contain historical sites and memorials related to the Mito Tengu Party, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and researchers. Tsuruga City also has many other historical sites related to the Mito Tengu Party, making it a popular route for historical walks.
Access Information
The temple is accessible on foot or by bus from Tsuruga Station on the JR Hokuriku Main Line. It is located in the city center of Tsuruga, and there are many other historical spots nearby.
Basic Information for Visiting Chōonji Temple
Visiting Etiquette
When visiting Chōonji Temple, the proper way to worship may differ depending on the Buddhist sect. At Nichiren Buddhist temples, it is common to chant “Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō.” At Shingon Buddhist temples, it is chanted “Namu Daishi Henjō Kongō.” In either case, it is important to worship quietly and with sincerity.
About Goshuin and Goshudai
At Chōonji Temple, a Nichiren Buddhist temple, you can receive Goshudai. Goshudai are unique to the Nichiren sect, inscribed with “Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō,” and are distinct from Goshuin. You can bring your own Goshudai book or receive a pre-written one. It is recommended to check with each temple in advance regarding reception hours and procedures.
Annual Events
Many Chōonji temples hold memorial services during Obon, Higan, and on October 13th (Oeshiki), the anniversary of Nichiren Shonin’s death. These events provide opportunities for local people to gather, and participating allows you to experience the temple’s atmosphere more deeply.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Around Nagai City, Yamagata Prefecture
Nagai City boasts natural landscapes such as Shirotsutsuji Park and the Mogami River, as well as tourist attractions like Ayame Park. The Okitama region, including Yonezawa City and Nanyo City, is rich in historical sites.
Around Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture
Enjoy a cityscape where history and modernity blend, including Amagasaki Castle, other temples in Teramachi, and shopping streets. It also offers good access to Osaka and Kobe.
Around Taito Ward and Ota Ward, Tokyo
The area around Chōonji Temple in Taito Ward is home to many tourist attractions such as Sensōji Temple, Ueno Park, and Ameyoko. While the area around Chōonji Temple in Ota Ward is primarily residential, it can be combined with temple visits to places like Ikegami Honmonji Temple.
Around Iwakura City, Aichi Prefecture
Iwakura City is known for its cherry blossoms, and the cherry tree-lined Gojō River is a popular spring tourist spot. It also offers convenient access to Nagoya City.
Around Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture
Tsuruga City boasts numerous tourist attractions unique to a port town, such as Kehi Shrine, the Red Brick Warehouse, and Tsuruga Port. Fresh seafood can also be enjoyed.
Summary
Chōonji Temples, located throughout Japan, each possess their own unique history and culture, and continue to play an important role as centers of local faith. Although they belong to different sects such as Nichiren Buddhism and Shingon Buddhism, all of these temples have a long history of being close to the people of their communities and serving as a spiritual haven.
Each temple has its own unique characteristics: Chōenji in Nagai City, Yamagata Prefecture, is the family temple of a powerful clan with a history dating back to the Muromachi period; Chōenji in Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture, is a renowned temple of the Rokujō branch of Nichiren Buddhism; Chōenji in Taito Ward, Tokyo, is one of the three great temples of the Edo period; Chōenji in Ota Ward, Tokyo, is an ancient Shingon Buddhist temple founded in the Heian period; Chōenji in Iwakura City, Aichi Prefecture, is an open temple that disseminates modern information; and Chōenji in Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture, is a temple that tells the history of the late Edo period.
When visiting Chōenji temples, researching their historical background and cultural assets beforehand will allow you to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation. Furthermore, combining visits with nearby tourist attractions will allow you to create a fulfilling travel plan. Why not experience the diversity and depth of Japanese temple culture through a tour of Chōenji temples?
