What is Nyora-ji Temple? A Complete Guide to Nyora-ji Temples Nationwide: History, Sect, and Goshuin (Temple Seal) Information
There are several temples named Nyora-ji throughout Japan. These temples, bearing the name “Nyorai,” the highest rank in Buddhism, each possess their own unique history and culture, and have been cherished as centers of local faith. This article provides detailed information on the history, sect, highlights, and visiting information for Nyora-ji temples throughout Japan.
About the Name of Nyora-ji Temple
The name “Nyora-ji” originates from “Nyorai,” the highest rank in Buddhism. Nyorai refers to a Buddha revered as a being who has attained enlightenment and saves all sentient beings. Various Nyorai exist, such as Amida Nyorai, Yakushi Nyorai, Dainichi Nyorai, and Shakyamuni Nyorai, each with different roles and merits.
Temples named Nyora-ji often enshrine a statue of Nyorai as their principal image, and have developed around this belief. Because temples with the same name exist throughout Japan, each temple has its own unique history and characteristics depending on the region.
List of Major Nyora-ji Temples Nationwide
Nyora-ji Temple (Jodo Sect) in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
Nyora-ji Temple, located in Imaichi, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, is a temple belonging to the Jodo sect. As a historical temple in Nikko City, it is deeply rooted in the community and is characterized by its beautiful grounds that change with the seasons.
The Jodo sect is a Buddhist sect founded by Honen Shonin, with Amida Buddha as its principal deity and teachings of attaining rebirth in paradise through chanting the Buddha’s name. This temple regularly holds events and memorial services, functioning as a center of faith in the region.
The temple grounds are well-maintained, including the main hall, allowing visitors to worship in a peaceful environment. Commemorative goshuin (temple stamps) are also available, making it a popular destination for visitors.
Yogyokuin Nyoraidera Temple (Tendai Sect), Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo
Located in Nishi-Ōi, Shinagawa Ward, “Kimyōzan Yogyokuin Nyoraidera Temple” is a well-known Tendai sect temple. This temple has a unique history, having been relocated to its current location during the Meiji period, and later merged with Yogyokuin Temple, which was originally in Ueno, during the Taisho period.
The main attraction is the wooden seated statues of the Five Wisdom Buddhas, housed in the vermilion-lacquered “Zuiōden” hall. These statues, affectionately known as the “Ōi Great Buddha,” present a magnificent sight, with Dainichi Nyorai in the center, flanked by Akshobhya Buddha, Ratnasambhava Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, and Amoghasiddhi Buddha, arranged in a horizontal line.
The Five Wisdom Buddhas represent the five wisdoms that express the truth of the universe in Esoteric Buddhism, each symbolizing a different direction, color, and virtue. These Buddhist statues are protected as important cultural properties of Shinagawa Ward.
Furthermore, Yogyokuin Nyora-ji Temple enshrines Hotei, one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Ebara, and is bustling with many worshippers during the New Year’s Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage. The temple grounds harmoniously blend modern halls with traditional architecture, providing a tranquil space for prayer in the heart of the city.
Nyora-ji Temple (Jodo Sect), Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Located in Kanazawa City, Nyora-ji Temple is a historic Jodo sect temple with deep ties to the Maeda family of the Kaga Domain. Its history dates back to the Tensho era, when it was founded by the monk Gyodai Shonin in Masuyama, Tonami-go, Etchu Province.
In 1662 (Kanbun 2), Maeda Tsunanori, the fifth lord of the Kaga Domain, established it as a memorial hall for his mother, Seitain (sister of Tokugawa Mitsukuni), thus establishing a deep connection with the lord’s family. Due to this historical background, the temple holds a special position among the temples of Kanazawa. The original temple buildings were destroyed by fire, but they were rebuilt in 1813 (Bunka 10), resulting in their current form. The temple grounds retain historical buildings, including the main hall, making them a valuable cultural heritage site that conveys the history of the Kaga Domain.
The principal image is Amida Buddha, and Buddhist services and ceremonies based on the teachings of the Jodo sect are held here. It’s a historical spot worth visiting along with Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle when sightseeing in Kanazawa.
Nyora-ji Temple (Seizan Jodo Sect), Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture
Nyora-ji Temple, located in Tatsuno City, is a Seizan Jodo sect temple established in 1533 (Tenbun 2). The current buildings date back to the 1700s and are preserved as historically valuable architecture.
Its most distinctive feature is the beautiful landscape created by the white walls and irrigation canals. This scenery is known as a representative landscape of the Tatsuno area and is frequently used as a filming location for movies and dramas. The striking contrast between the red temple gate and white walls makes it a popular spot for photography.
The Nishiyama Jodo sect is a branch of the Jodo sect, founded by Shoku Shonin, a disciple of Honen Shonin. While it preaches rebirth in paradise through chanting the Buddha’s name, it also emphasizes the importance of precepts.
The temple grounds have a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, and its harmonious blend with the historic townscape captivates visitors. It’s a must-visit spot in Tatsuno City, along with Tatsuno Castle and the Soy Sauce Museum.
Nyora-ji Temple (Jodo Sect), Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture
Nyora-ji Temple, located in Hirume-cho, Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture, is also a temple belonging to the Jodo sect. It has a long history as a center of local faith, and regular events and memorial services are held there.
The temple grounds are well-maintained, including the main hall, and function as a place of relaxation for local residents. It deepens its ties with the local community through Buddhist events such as the New Year’s Eve bell ringing and the Flower Festival.
Ogaki City is a historical city known as the “City of Water,” and Nyora-ji Temple is an integral part of its historical landscape. When visiting, it is recommended to combine your visit with other nearby tourist attractions such as Ogaki Castle and the site of the final leg of the Oku no Hosomichi (Narrow Road to the Deep North).
Nyora-ji Temple (Jodo Sect), Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Located in Fujiyoshida City at the foot of Mount Fuji, Nyora-ji Temple is a Jodo sect temple deeply connected to the worship of Mount Fuji. Situated overlooking Mount Fuji, it preserves the history of Buddhist faith practiced at the foot of the sacred Mount Fuji.
Fujiyoshida City flourished as a climbing route to Mount Fuji, and many temples and shrines exist there. Nyora-ji Temple is one of them, supporting the local faith.
Nyora-ji Temple (Jodo Shinshu Honganji School), Sapporo City, Hokkaido
Located in Shiroishi Ward, Sapporo City, Hokkaido, Nyora-ji Temple belongs to the Jodo Shinshu Honganji School. Jodo Shinshu is a Buddhist sect founded by Shinran Shonin, and it preaches salvation through the power of Amida Buddha’s vow.
As a temple established during the Hokkaido pioneering era, it has a history of being a spiritual center for the settlers. Currently, it belongs to the Sapporo group and is active as part of the network of local Jodo Shinshu temples.
The principal image is Amida Buddha, and regular memorial services and Buddhist rituals are held. It is a temple where one can feel the history of preserving faith in Hokkaido’s harsh climate.
Nyora-ji Temple (Jodo Shinshu Otani School), Ishioka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
Nyora-ji Temple, located in Ishioka City, Ibaraki Prefecture, belongs to the Jodo Shinshu Otani School. The principal image is Amida Buddha, and a distinctive feature is the enshrined statue of Prince Shotoku on the temple grounds.
Prince Shotoku is revered by many Buddhist sects for his contributions to spreading Buddhism in Japan. The Ukiashi statue depicts Prince Shotoku in his childhood and is cherished as an object of worship.
Ishioka City is a historic city where the provincial capital of Hitachi Province was located, and many temples and shrines remain. Nyora-ji Temple has also supported local faith within this historical context.
About the Sect of Nyora-ji Temple
Looking at Nyora-ji temples throughout Japan, it is clear that they belong to various sects. We will summarize the main sects and their characteristics.
Jodo Sect
The Jodo sect, founded by Honen Shonin, teaches that by chanting “Namu Amida Butsu,” one can attain rebirth in the Pure Land through the power of Amida Buddha’s original vow. Nyora-ji temples in Nikko City (Tochigi Prefecture), Kanazawa City (Ishikawa Prefecture), Ogaki City (Gifu Prefecture), and Fujiyoshida City (Yamanashi Prefecture) belong to the Jodo sect.
In Jodo sect temples, Amida Buddha is the principal deity, and regular chanting sessions and memorial services are held. Various events are held throughout the year, such as the ringing of the temple bell on New Year’s Eve, the Obon memorial service for hungry ghosts, and the spring and autumn equinox services.
Tendai Buddhism
Founded by Saichō (Dengyō Daishi), the Tendai Buddhism uses the Lotus Sutra as its fundamental scripture and preaches the doctrine that “all sentient beings possess Buddha-nature.” Yōgyokuin Nyōrai-ji Temple in Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo, belongs to the Tendai Buddhism.
The Tendai Buddhism developed as a comprehensive form of Buddhism incorporating elements of Esoteric Buddhism, and as the mother temple of Japanese Buddhism, it produced the founders of many sects. The belief in the Five Wisdom Buddhas is a form of faith with strong Esoteric Buddhist elements.
Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism
Founded by Shinran Shōnin, the Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism preaches absolute salvation through the power of Amida Buddha’s original vow. It is broadly divided into the Honganji branch (Nishi Honganji) and the Ōtani branch (Higashi Honganji). Nyora-ji Temple in Sapporo, Hokkaido, belongs to the Honganji sect, while Nyora-ji Temple in Ishioka, Ibaraki Prefecture, belongs to the Otani sect.
In Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, chanting “Namu Amida Butsu” is considered an expression of gratitude to Amida Buddha. It has characteristics that differ from other sects, such as allowing monks to marry.
Nishiyama Jodo Sect
Founded by Shoku Shonin, the Nishiyama Jodo Sect is a branch of the Jodo sect, but it is characterized by its emphasis on precepts. Nyora-ji Temple in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, belongs to this sect.
While it preaches rebirth in paradise through chanting the Buddha’s name, it has doctrinal characteristics that differ from the main Jodo sect in that it emphasizes the practice of precepts in daily life.
Principal Image and Buddha Statues of Nyora-ji Temples
Many temples named Nyora-ji, as the name suggests, have a Buddha statue as their principal image.
Amida Buddha
In Jodo-shu and Jodo Shinshu-affiliated Nyora-ji temples, Amida Buddha is generally enshrined as the principal deity. Amida Buddha is the principal deity of the Western Pure Land, and is the Buddha who vowed to welcome all those who chant “Namu Amida Butsu” into the Pure Land.
Amida Buddha statues are often depicted making the meditation mudra (Jōin) or the welcoming mudra (Raigōin).
Five Wisdom Buddhas
The Five Wisdom Buddhas enshrined at Yōgyokuin Nyora-ji Temple in Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo, are a group of Buddha statues representing the cosmology of Esoteric Buddhism. Dainichi Nyorai is in the center, Akshobhya Buddha to the east, Ratnasambhava Buddha to the south, Amida Buddha to the west, and Amoghasiddhi Buddha to the north.
Each Buddha symbolizes a different wisdom, and the integration of these five wisdoms represents the completion of the enlightenment of Dainichi Nyorai, the truth of the universe.
Events and Ceremonies at Nyora-ji Temple
Nyora-ji temples throughout Japan hold various Buddhist events and ceremonies throughout the year.
Regular Ceremonies
Regular ceremonies are held monthly on the anniversary of death, during the spring and autumn equinoxes, and during the Obon festival. These provide opportunities for parishioners and followers to participate in ancestral rites and learn about Buddhist teachings.
Hana Matsuri (Buddha’s Birthday)
On April 8th, the Buddha’s birthday, the Hana Matsuri (Buddha’s Birthday) is held. A statue of the newborn Buddha is placed in a flower-decorated hall, and sweet tea is poured over it to celebrate. Many Nyora-ji temples hold this event as a fun occasion that children can also participate in.
New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing
On New Year’s Eve, the temple bell is rung to dispel the 108 worldly desires. At many Nyora-ji temples, general visitors are allowed to ring the bell, making it a beloved traditional event for welcoming the New Year.
Special Memorial Services
Large-scale memorial services are sometimes held on special occasions, such as the temple’s founding anniversary or the death anniversary of the sect’s founder. On these occasions, Buddhist statues and temple treasures not usually on public display may be specially exhibited.
About Nyora-ji Temple’s Goshuin (Temple Seals)
In recent years, collecting Goshuin has become popular, and many Nyora-ji temples offer them.
Regular Goshuin
Regular Goshuin, bearing the temple’s principal image and name, can be obtained at the reception area during visits. In most cases, a donation of around 300 to 500 yen is required.
Commemorative Goshuin
During special events and anniversaries, limited-edition commemorative Goshuin may be offered. At temples such as Nyora-ji Temple in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, commemorative Goshuin (temple stamps) are regularly issued and are popular with visitors.
Goshuin are not merely stamp rallies; they are a record of one’s connection with the temple as proof of worship. The proper etiquette for receiving a Goshuin is to clasp your hands together in the main hall, offer a heartfelt prayer, and then receive the stamp.
Etiquette and Manners for Visiting Nyora-ji Temple
When visiting a temple, it is important to observe basic etiquette and manners.
Bowing at the Temple Gate
When entering a temple, bow before the temple gate before entering the grounds. This is an expression of respect for entering the realm of Buddha.
Purification at the Water Basin
If there is a water basin, scoop water with the ladle and purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order. Finally, purify the handle of the ladle and return it to its original position.
Visiting the Main Hall
At the main hall, place your offering in the offering box and quietly clasp your hands together in prayer. In Buddhism, clapping your hands is not the proper etiquette; quietly joining your hands in prayer is the correct way.
Manners on the Temple Grounds
Please be quiet on the temple grounds and refrain from speaking loudly or running around. Photography is only permitted in designated areas, and you must respect any restrictions on photography inside the main hall or of Buddha statues.
Access and Visiting Information for Nyora-ji Temples
Access methods to each Nyora-ji temple vary depending on their location.
Access by Public Transportation
Nyora-ji temples located in urban areas are often accessible by public transportation such as trains and buses. Yogyokuin Nyora-ji Temple in Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo, is within walking distance of JR Oimachi Station, and Nyora-ji Temple in Sapporo City, Hokkaido, is also accessible by public transportation within the city.
Access by Car
For Nyora-ji temples located in rural areas, access by car is often convenient. Parking availability and capacity vary by temple, so it is recommended to check in advance.
Visiting Hours
While entry to the temple grounds is generally free during the day, there may be time restrictions for viewing the interior of the main hall or receiving temple stamps (Goshuin). Generally, these hours are from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but this varies by temple, so it is recommended to check in advance.
Nyora-ji Temples and Local Culture
Nyora-ji temples throughout Japan are deeply intertwined with their respective local cultures.
Centers of Local Faith
Nyora-ji temples are not merely religious facilities; they have also served as centers of local communities. They serve as places to deepen the bonds among residents through funerals, memorial services, and annual events.
Protection of Cultural Properties
Many Nyora-ji temples preserve historically valuable buildings, Buddhist statues, and ancient documents. These are carefully protected as precious cultural heritage that conveys the history of the region.
Value as a Tourist Resource
Historical Nyora-ji temples also play an important role as tourist resources. Temples with beautiful scenery, such as Nyora-ji Temple in Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture, contribute to the promotion of local tourism.
The Modern Role of Nyora-ji Temple
In modern society, Nyora-ji Temple is taking on new roles in addition to its traditional role as a religious facility.
A Place of Peace of Mind
In today’s busy society, temples are precious spaces where one can find peace of mind. Spending time in the quiet temple grounds provides an opportunity to escape the stresses of daily life and to reflect on oneself.
Transmission of Buddhist Culture
Nyora-ji Temple also engages in activities to pass on Buddhist teachings and culture to the next generation. Through Buddhist events for children and Dharma talks for the general public, they strive to spread Buddhist culture.
Social Contribution Activities
Some Nyora-ji Temples are also engaged in social contribution activities. These include charity work and participation in local volunteer activities, practicing the spirit of Buddhist compassion.
Summary
Nyora-ji temples exist throughout Japan, each possessing its own unique history and culture. They belong to various sects, including Jodo-shu, Tendai-shu, and Jodo Shinshu, and the Buddha statues enshrined as principal images also vary.
Nyora-ji temples in Nikko City (Tochigi Prefecture), Shinagawa Ward (Tokyo), Kanazawa City (Ishikawa Prefecture), Tatsuno City (Hyogo Prefecture), Ogaki City (Gifu Prefecture), Fujiyoshida City (Yamanashi Prefecture), Sapporo City (Hokkaido), and Ishioka City (Ibaraki Prefecture) play important roles as centers of faith and treasure troves of cultural assets in their respective regions.
When visiting a Nyora-ji temple, researching its history, sect, and principal image beforehand will lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation. Furthermore, observing appropriate worship etiquette and manners will foster a positive relationship with the temple.
In modern society, in addition to their role as traditional religious institutions, Nyora-ji temples function as places of peace, cultural transmission, and social contribution centers. Please do visit a nearby Nyora-ji Temple and experience its history and culture.
