Myodenji Complete Guide: History and Characteristics of Nichiren Buddhist Temples in Kyoto, Kamakura, and Atsugi
Myodenji is the name of a Nichiren Buddhist temple found throughout Japan. The Myodenji temples in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kamakura City, and Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, are particularly well-known, each possessing its own unique history and characteristics. This article provides a detailed explanation of these major Myodenji temples, including their historical background, cultural assets, points of interest, and access information.
Myodenji is a name for Nichiren Buddhist temples found throughout Japan. ## Table of Contents
This article provides detailed information on the following:
- Kyoto – Hokyozan Myodenji Temple (Nishi-Minobu)
- Kamakura – Shoshinzan Myodenji Temple (Totoro Temple)
- Atsugi – Seibaizan Myodenji Temple (Hoshi-kudari)
- Access Information for Each Temple
- Points to Note When Visiting
Kyoto – Hokyozan Myodenji Temple: Nishi-Minobu, where the sacred relics of Nichiren Shonin are enshrined
History and Founding
Located in Kitamonzen-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Hokyozan Myodenji Temple holds an important position as a head temple (historical temple) of the Nichiren sect. Founded in 1477 by Enkyoin Nichii Shonin, this temple is counted as one of the eight head temples of the Nichiren sect in Kyoto.
Initially located elsewhere in Kyoto, it was moved to Kyogoku Nijo in 1591 due to Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s order to reorganize Kyoto. Later, it was destroyed in the Great Fire of Hoei in 1708 and rebuilt in its current location in Sakyo Ward. This history of relocation and reconstruction is closely related to the changes in Kyoto’s urban planning.
Importance as “Western Minobu”
The main reason Myodenji Temple is called “Western Minobu” is because it enshrines the sacred relics of Nichiren Shonin. This honorific title was given to it in contrast to the head temple, Minobu-san Kuonji, signifying “Western Minobu.” Due to the enshrinement of these relics, Myodenji Temple has become a special pilgrimage site for Nichiren Buddhist followers.
Temple Grounds and Sub-temples
Myodenji Temple has five sub-temples, each with its own unique history:
- Myōshaku-in: Functions as a place for academic study
- Enryū-in: Educational facility for monks
- Ryūgaku-in: A place of worship for believers
- Honkō-in: Center for conducting religious ceremonies
- Gyokuju-in: Role in cultural property preservation
These sub-temples function as important organizations supporting the religious activities of Myodenji Temple.
Annual Events
Myodenji Temple holds various religious ceremonies throughout the year. Particularly important is the “Oeshiki” ceremony, held to coincide with the anniversary of Nichiren Shonin’s death. Many believers from all over Japan visit this ceremony, which is solemnly observed as the 743rd anniversary of his death.
Cultural Assets and Highlights
The temple grounds preserve Buddhist statues and calligraphy dating back to the Edo period, conveying the history of the Nichiren sect to the present day. The main hall’s architectural style strongly reflects the characteristics of the mid-Edo period, making it of high architectural historical value.
Kamakura’s Shōshinzan Myōdenji Temple: A Newly-Established Temple Affectionately Known as the “Totoro Temple”
History and Relocation
Located in Ōgigayatsu, Kamakura City, Myōdenji Temple’s mountain name is Shōshinzan or Tahōdani-san. A distinctive feature of this temple is its relatively recent history, having relocated from Hakusan in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, to Kamakura in the mid-Showa period.
Originally founded in Edo in 1652 (Shōō 1) as a prayer temple for Tokugawa Yorifusa of Kishū. Approximately 300 years later, it was relocated to Kamakura, where it remains today. Its former head temple was Sanshō Ren’eiji Temple, and it belongs to the Shinshi Dharma lineage.
The Totoro Temple’s Nickname
Myodenji Temple became known as “Totoro Temple” because the atmosphere of its grounds evokes the world of Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece, “My Neighbor Totoro.” Nestled amidst the lush natural environment of Ogigayatsu, the temple grounds offer a sense of peace and tranquility to visitors.
Historical Background of the Temple Grounds
Interestingly, the grounds of Myodenji Temple are said to be the site of Izumigayatsu, founded in 1262 by Ninshō Bodhisattva. This area has been recognized as a religious sacred site since the Kamakura period, and various temples of different sects have been established there throughout its long history.
Its Place in Kamakura
Although a relatively new temple within Kamakura City, its location in Ogigayatsu, close to the heart of Kamakura, allows it to function as a center of local faith. It is a popular spot for those seeking quiet worship during their temple pilgrimage in Kamakura.
Atsugi’s Seibaizan Myodenji Temple: An Ancient Temple with a Legend of the Descending Stars
Founding and History
Myodenji Temple, located in Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, has the mountain name Seibaizan, and its principal image is a pagoda with two statues and four attendants. It is said to have been founded in 1278 (Kōan 1) by Honma Shigenaga, who became its patron.
This temple, also known as “Hoshi-kudari” (Descending Stars), has an interesting legend surrounding its founding. This legend is intertwined with local folk beliefs and is part of the cultural identity of the Atsugi region.
Sectarian Positioning
Its former head temple was Nakayama Hokkeji Temple, and it belongs to the Tsūshi-Horinouchi lineage. This lineage is an important part of the temple network within the Nichiren sect and has played a crucial role in the transmission of doctrine and the training of monks.
Community Connections
Myodenji Temple in Atsugi is known as a temple deeply connected to the local community. Many worshippers visit Myodenji Temple not only from the local area but also from surrounding regions, and large crowds gather for memorial services and annual events.
Other Myodenji Temples
Myodenji Temple in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
There is also a Myodenji Temple in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. This temple is designated as a regional cultural property by the city and is an indispensable part of Numazu’s history.
Myodenji Temple in Yase, Kyoto Prefecture
There is also a Myodenji Temple in Yase, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. This is a different temple from the Myodenji Temple in Kitamonzen-cho mentioned above. Located in Yase, a secluded area of Kyoto, it offers a peaceful environment for worship.
Relationship between Nichiren Buddhism and Myodenji Temple
Doctrines of Nichiren Buddhism
Understanding the basic doctrines of Nichiren Buddhism is important for understanding Myodenji Temple. Nichiren Buddhism is a Buddhist sect founded by the Kamakura period monk Nichiren Shonin (1222-1282), and its fundamental scripture is the Lotus Sutra.
The teaching that all people can attain Buddhahood by chanting the mantra “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo” had a profound impact on society at the time.
Head Temple System
The Nichiren sect has a head temple system, and Myodenji Temple in Kyoto holds an important position as one of its head temples. The head temple plays a central role in the sect’s operation, including interpreting doctrines, training monks, and overseeing branch temples.
Visiting Guide
Access to Myodenji Temple, Kyoto
Location: Kitamonzen-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Transportation:
- Kyoto City Bus: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from the nearest bus stop
- Eizan Electric Railway: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Demachiyanagi Station
- Keihan Railway: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Demachiyanagi Station
Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Please check for the main hall’s interior)
Access to Myodenji Temple, Kamakura
Location: Ogigayatsu, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Transportation:
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Kamakura Station
- Enoden: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Hase Station
- Bus: Approximately 3 minutes on foot from Ogigayatsu bus stop
Visiting Hours: Daytime (Please check with the temple for details)
Access to Myodenji Temple, Atsugi
Location: Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Transportation:
- Odakyu Line: From Hon-Atsugi Station, take a bus or taxi.
- We recommend checking detailed access information in advance.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting a Temple
Basic Manners for Visiting a Temple
When visiting a temple, please observe the following basic manners:
- Dress Code: Dress modestly and cleanly.
- Photography: Permission is required to photograph the interior of the main hall or Buddha statues.
- Quietness: Remain quiet on the temple grounds.
- Smoking and Eating: Refrain from smoking and drinking outside of designated areas.
Proper Way to Visit a Temple
Basic proper way to visit a Nichiren Buddhist temple:
- Bow at the temple gate before entering the grounds.
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Join your hands in prayer in front of the main hall and chant “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo.”
- Offer a monetary donation and bow.
- Bow at the temple gate upon leaving.
Participation in Memorial Services
If you plan to participate in a memorial service such as an Oeshiki, it is recommended that you contact the temple in advance to confirm the participation procedures. Especially at Myodenji Temple in Kyoto, large-scale memorial services are held, so early information gathering is crucial.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Kyoto – Around Myodenji Temple
- Ginkaku-ji Temple (Jisho-ji Temple): A World Heritage Site within walking distance
- Philosopher’s Path: Famous for its cherry blossoms
- Nanzen-ji Temple: A special temple among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto
- Heian Jingu Shrine: A grand shrine founded in the Meiji era
Kamakura – Around Myodenji Temple
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: A representative shrine of Kamakura
- Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine: A power spot for improving financial luck
- Genjiyama Park: The starting point of a hiking course
- Hase-dera Temple: An ancient temple with beautiful flowers throughout the seasons
Atsugi – Around Myodenji Temple
- Atsugi Shrine: The guardian shrine of the region
- Sagami River: A riverbank rich in nature
- Nanasawa Onsen: A hot spring resort with many day-trip facilities
Cultural Significance of Myodenji Temple
Preservation of Buddhist Culture
Myodenji temples throughout Japan have functioned as centers for transmitting the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism in their respective regions. Kyoto’s Myodenji, in particular, plays a crucial role in enshrining the sacred relics of Nichiren Buddhism and is one of the central hubs of Nichiren Buddhism.
Core of the Local Community
Temples are not merely religious institutions; they also serve as cultural and social centers of local communities. Through annual events and memorial services, they become places for community interaction and contribute to the preservation of traditional culture.
Value as a Historical Building
Kyoto’s Myodenji, in particular, is a valuable cultural asset that preserves the architectural style of the Edo period. Its historical background, including its reconstruction after the Great Hoei Fire, is also important material for understanding Kyoto’s urban history.
Summary
Temples bearing the name Myodenji exist throughout Japan, each possessing its own unique history and characteristics. From Kyoto’s Myodenji Temple, known as Nishiminobu and housing the sacred relics of Nichiren Shonin; to Kamakura’s Shoshinzan Myodenji Temple, affectionately called the “Totoro Temple”; and Atsugi’s Seibaizan Myodenji Temple, steeped in the legend of a descent of stars, each temple plays a vital role as a center of local faith and culture.
These temples, which continue to transmit the teachings of the Nichiren sect, are not merely tourist destinations but continue to function as living places of faith. When visiting, it is important to understand their historical background and religious significance and to approach them with respect.
By visiting Myodenji temples throughout Japan, you can experience the history of the Nichiren sect and the diversity of Japanese Buddhist culture. Experience the unique charm of each Myodenji temple—the solemn atmosphere of Kyoto, the tranquility surrounded by nature in Kamakura, and the warmth rooted in the local community of Atsugi—by visiting them in person.
