Complete Guide to Hōfuku-ji Temple | A Summary of History, Principal Image, Access, and Columbarium Information for Hōfuku-ji Temples Nationwide
There are several temples named “Hōfuku-ji” throughout Japan. Each belongs to a different sect and has its own unique history and tradition. This article provides detailed information on Hōfuku-ji temples throughout Japan, including their history, principal image, sect, access information, columbariums, and perpetual memorial services, covering locations such as Kurobe City in Toyama Prefecture, Kakamigahara City in Gifu Prefecture, Wakayama City in Wakayama Prefecture, Hannan City in Osaka Prefecture, and Mobara City in Chiba Prefecture.
Hōfuku-ji Temple, Unazuki-machi, Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture
History and Origin
Hōfuku-ji Temple, located in Unazuki-machi, Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, is an ancient temple with a history of over 1200 years, said to have been founded in 806 AD by Genshiki Daiwajō. This temple once boasted seven main halls and sixteen sub-temples within its Niomon Gate, a truly magnificent complex.
However, during the Sengoku period, when Uesugi Kenshin invaded, many of the buildings were destroyed by fire. Later, in 1593, during the reign of the restorer, Abbot Shuun, Hōfuku-ji Temple was rebuilt with a donation of 100 bales of rice fields for the Kannon lamp from Lord Maeda Toshiie.
Main Image and Buddhist Statues
The main image is an Eleven-faced Kannon, flanked by a Hayagriva Kannon on the right and a Shō Kannon on the left. These statues are all said to be the work of the Nara sculptor Kasuga, possessing high artistic and religious value.
Sect and Address
- Sect: Shingon Buddhism
- Address: Asu, Unazuki-machi, Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture
- Phone Number: Please check the temple’s official website.
Asuyama’s Columbarium/Ossuary
Asuyama Hofuku-ji Temple has a fully equipped columbarium/ossuary that meets modern needs. It offers a bright and serene environment and is available to people of all faiths and denominations. There is no need to become a temple parishioner, and it also accommodates those who wish for perpetual memorial services.
Located in a historic site where the Asuyama Great Cherry Tree stands tall, it provides a peaceful environment for commemorating the deceased. Visitors are welcome at any time, and detailed explanations can be provided upon prior contact.
Access Information
Located in a mountainous area approximately 15 minutes by car from Unazuki Onsen Station on the Toyama Chihō Railway. Visitors can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons in a rich natural environment.
Hōfuku-ji Temple (Shingon Buddhism, Koyasan) – Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture
Characteristics of this Lush Green Mountain Temple
Hōfuku-ji Temple, located in Kuruma-dō, Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture, is a temple of the Shingon sect of Koyasan Buddhism. It is known as a lush green mountain temple nestled in the mountains of Kakamigahara, about a 5-minute drive along the Kakamigahara Parkway from “Ogase Pond,” where legend says a dragon god resides.
Principal Image and Enshrined Deities
The principal image is Dainichi Nyorai, and other deities such as Fudo Myoo, Kobo Daishi, and Bishamonten are also enshrined. It is primarily a temple for prayers for protection from misfortune, family safety, and business prosperity, attracting many visitors throughout the year.
Services Offered
Hofuku-ji Temple accepts various memorial services and prayers at all times, including the following:
- Exorcism Prayer: A prayer to ward off evil for those entering their unlucky year.
- Memorial Service for Stillborn Children: A memorial service to comfort the spirits of stillborn children.
- Ancestral Memorial Service: A memorial service for generations of ancestors.
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth: A prayer for a safe delivery.
- Perpetual Memorial Service: A memorial service for those without successors.
Address and Access
- Sect: Koyasan Shingon Buddhism
- Address: 6799-3 Kuruma-dō, Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture
- Phone Number: 058-384-3510
The temple is easily accessible from Kakamigahara Parkway, located east of Gifu City, and close to Inuyama City and Kōnan City in Aichi Prefecture to the south, making it a conveniently located temple.
An Oasis for the Modern Mind
This mountain temple, nestled in the shade of trees, offers a sanctuary for the modern mind, providing a time to escape from daily life and purify the soul. A tranquil space surrounded by nature awaits, offering a peaceful environment for worship.
Hōfuku-ji Temple (Jōdo Shinshū Honganji School), Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture
Hōfuku-ji Temple in Wakaura
Located in Wakaura-naka, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture, Hōfuku-ji Temple is a Jōdo Shinshū Honganji School temple. Under the jurisdiction of Honganji Sagimori Betsuin, it functions as a center of local faith.
Basic Information
- Sect: Jodo Shinshu Honganji-ha
- Address: 2-12-16 Wakaura-naka, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture 641-0025
- Phone Number: 073-445-1067
Wakaura is a region known as a scenic spot since the Manyo period, and you can visit the temple in a historical atmosphere.
Hofuku-ji Temple (Okiku-dera) in Hannan City, Osaka Prefecture
The Tragic Story of Toyotomi Hidetsugu and Okiku
Hofuku-ji Temple, located in Hannan City, Osaka Prefecture, is officially called “Yoryuzan Seishoin Hofuku-ji” and is a Jodo sect temple founded in 1501.
This temple is known as the temple associated with Okiku, the daughter of Toyotomi Hidetsugu’s concubine, and is also called “Okiku-dera.” Okiku is a figure known for the tragic story of the Summer Siege of Osaka, and this temple is a valuable place that conveys the turbulent history of the Sengoku period.
Historical Value
As a temple founded during the Sengoku period, it is attracting attention as a hidden gem in Hannan City. It is especially recommended for history buffs and those interested in the Sengoku period.
Basic Information
- Sect: Jodo-shu (Pure Land Buddhism)
- Official Name: Yoryuzan Seishoin Hofukuji
- Established: Bunki 1 (1501)
- Address: Hannan City, Osaka Prefecture (Please check official information for details)
Hofukuji Temple (Nichiren Buddhism), Mobara City, Chiba Prefecture
The Tradition of Kazusa Shichiri Hokke
Hofukuji Temple, located in Hōme, Mobara City, Chiba Prefecture, is a Nichiren Buddhist temple known as Hōrinzan Hōfukuji.
Originally a Shingon Buddhist temple, it was founded on June 8, 1589 (Tensho 17) as a Hokke Buddhist temple transmitting the Kazusa Shichiri Hokke. As a temple of the Nichijū school, it continues to transmit the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism.
Basic Information
- Mountain Name: Hōrinzan
- Sect: Nichiren Buddhism (Nichijū School)
- Address: 1774 Hōme, Mobara City, Chiba Prefecture 299-4113
- Phone Number: 0475-34-3493
Funeral and Memorial Service Options at Hōfuku-ji Temple
The Future of Funerals
In modern times, with the diversification of family structures and values, the styles of funerals and memorial services are also changing. Each Hōfuku-ji temple offers various memorial service methods that meet modern needs while preserving tradition.
Choosing a Columbarium or Perpetual Memorial Service
Hofuku-ji Temple, particularly in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, and Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture, offers columbarium and perpetual memorial service services. It has the following features:
- No Religious Affiliation Required: Anyone can use the service.
- No Temple Membership Required: Available without becoming a temple member.
- Bright and Clean Environment: Modern and well-maintained facilities.
- Easy Access: Conveniently located for easy access from urban areas.
- Visits Accepted Anytime: You can inspect the facilities in advance.
Leaving a Legacy of a Life Lived in Your Own Way
Hofuku-ji Temple allows you to realize memorial services that respect the wishes of the deceased and the family. As an alternative to traditional cemeteries, columbariums have less management burden and can be used with peace of mind even by those without successors.
Starting a Life with a Temple at Hofuku-ji Temple
A Temple as a Place of Spiritual Support
Hofuku-ji Temple can be visited not only for funerals and memorial services, but also as a place of spiritual support on a daily basis. Through regular visits and participation in seasonal events, you can experience life with a temple.
Various Prayer and Memorial Services
- Exorcism: Prayers for warding off evil for those in their unlucky years
- Family Safety: Prayers for the health and peace of the family
- Business Prosperity: Prayers for the development of your business
- Safe Childbirth Prayer: Prayers for the safety of mother and child
- Memorial Service for Stillborn Children: Prayers for the comfort of the spirits of stillborn children
- Ancestral Memorial Service: Memorial services for generations of ancestors
Sunday and Public Holiday Services
Many Hōfuku-ji temples are open on Sundays and public holidays, making it possible to visit or consult even if you cannot find time on weekdays. However, we recommend making a reservation in advance by phone or email.
Things to Know Before Visiting Hōfuku-ji Temple
Etiquette for Visiting
- Dress Code: Modest, understated attire is preferred.
- Worship Etiquette: Etiquette varies by sect; please confirm with the head priest if unsure.
- Photography: Permission may be required for photography inside the main hall.
- Quietness: Please be quiet on the temple grounds.
Recommendation to Contact in Advance
We especially recommend contacting us in advance by phone or email address in the following cases:
- If you wish to tour the ossuary.
- If you wish to request special prayers or memorial services.
- If you wish to meet with the head priest.
- If you are planning a large group visit.
Privacy Policy and Handling of Personal Information
Each Hōfuku-ji temple appropriately manages the personal information of those seeking advice and parishioners, handling it in accordance with our privacy policy. Please be assured that personal information provided when contracting for ossuary services or requesting memorial services will be strictly managed.
Customer Testimonials
Feedback from those who used the columbarium
“I live far away and was worried about not being able to visit the grave often, but the columbarium at Hōfuku-ji Temple is well-maintained, and I felt at ease entrusting my loved one’s remains there. It’s a bright and clean environment, and I think my loved one would be pleased.” (Woman in her 60s, Toyama Prefecture)
Feedback from those who received exorcism prayers
“As I approached my unlucky year, I requested exorcism prayers at Hōfuku-ji Temple. The priest’s careful prayers and warm words soothed my heart. The quiet environment surrounded by nature allowed me to find peace of mind.” (Man in his 40s, Gifu Prefecture)
Feedback from those who received memorial services for miscarried or stillborn babies
“I requested memorial services for my miscarried or stillborn baby at Hōfuku-ji Temple, something that had weighed heavily on my mind for many years. The priest listened attentively and performed the memorial service with care, which lightened my heart.” (Woman in her 30s, Gifu Prefecture)
How to contact each Hōfuku-ji Temple
Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture Asuyama Hofuku-ji Temple
For more information about the columbarium and perpetual memorial services, please use the inquiry form on our official website or contact us by phone. Visits are welcome at any time.
Hofuku-ji Temple, Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture
- Phone Number: 058-384-3510
- Address: 6799-3 Kuruma-dō, Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture
For consultations regarding exorcism, memorial services for stillborn babies, perpetual memorial services, etc., please contact us by phone or email.
Hōfuku-ji Temple, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture
- Phone Number: 073-445-1067
- Address: 2-12-16 Wakaura-naka, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture 641-0025
Hōfuku-ji Temple, Mobara City, Chiba Prefecture
- Phone Number: 0475-34-3493
- Address: 1774 Hōme, Mobara City, Chiba Prefecture 299-4113
Take Time to Cleanse Your Mind Away from Daily Life
In modern society, we are often so busy that it is difficult to find time to calm our minds. Hōfuku-ji Temple is an oasis for modern people.
Spending time quietly praying in the temple grounds surrounded by lush nature is a precious opportunity to be freed from the stresses of daily life and rediscover your true self. By regularly visiting the temple, you can maintain peace of mind and live a more fulfilling life.
Summary: Characteristics and Selection of Hōfuku-ji Temples Nationwide
Hōfuku-ji temples, scattered throughout Japan, each possess different sects, histories, and characteristics.
- Hōfuku-ji Temple in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture: An ancient temple with over 1200 years of history, offering columbariums and perpetual memorial services.
- Hōfuku-ji Temple in Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture: A mountain temple of the Kōyasan Shingon sect, specializing in exorcism and memorial services for stillborn babies.
- Hōfuku-ji Temple in Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture: A temple of the Jōdo Shinshū Honganji sect.
- Hōfuku-ji Temple in Hannan City, Osaka Prefecture: A historical temple associated with Toyotomi Hidetsugu and Okiku.
- Hōfuku-ji Temple in Mobara City, Chiba Prefecture: A Nichiren Buddhist temple.
You can choose the most suitable Hōfuku-ji temple according to your area of residence, the type of memorial service you desire, and your preferred sect. If you are considering a columbarium or perpetual memorial service, we recommend visiting several temples and speaking directly with the head priests.
Hofuku-ji Temple is not merely a place for memorial services, but a spiritual haven that will accompany you through various milestones in your life. Why not cherish your connection with Hofuku-ji Temple to leave a lasting legacy of your life and walk through life with peace of mind?
