Complete Guide to Tanjoji Temples | A Thorough Explanation of the History, Highlights, and Access to the Three Major Tanjoji Temples in Chiba, Okayama, and Kyoto
There are several temples named “Tanjoji” (meaning “birth temple”) throughout Japan. Each is a historically significant temple built on the birthplace of a high-ranking Buddhist priest, possessing its own unique history and culture. This article provides a thorough explanation of the history, highlights, and access methods for the most famous Tanjoji Temple, the head temple of the Nichiren sect in Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture, as well as the Tanjoji Temple associated with Honen Shonin in Kumenan-cho, Okayama Prefecture, and the Honmon Butsuryu sect Tanjoji Temple in Kyoto.
Tanjoji Temple, Kominato, Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture
History and Origin of Tanjoji Temple
Tanjoji Temple, located in Kominato, Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture, is an important temple known as the head temple of the Nichiren sect. This temple was named “Tanjoji” because it was built on the site of the birthplace of Nichiren Shonin.
In October of Kenji 2 (1276), Nichiren Shonin, a disciple of Nichiren Shonin, founded the temple as Takamitsu-zan Nichiren Tanjo-ji Temple to commemorate his master’s birthplace. Its mountain name is Kominato-yama, and it serves as a sacred site to permanently commemorate the birth of Nichiren Shonin on February 16, 1222 (Jōō 1).
On February 16, 2021, the temple celebrated the 800th anniversary of Nichiren Shonin’s birth, attracting many visitors. Even today, it remains a central place of faith for the Nichiren sect, drawing numerous pilgrims from both within Japan and internationally.
A History of Repeated Disasters and Reconstruction
The history of Tanjo-ji Temple is also a history of battling natural disasters. Since its founding, the temple has been struck by two major earthquakes and tsunamis.
The first major disaster was the Genroku Great Earthquake of Genroku 16 (1703), during which many temple buildings were swept away by the resulting tsunami. Reconstruction began in 1711 (Shōtoku 1), but the temple suffered further damage from a tsunami during the Meiji era.
These disasters forced the temple to relocate from its original site to its current location on higher ground. However, each time, the temple was rebuilt thanks to the fervent faith of its followers, resulting in the magnificent temple complex we see today.
Highlights and Main Buildings within the Temple Grounds
Founder’s Hall
The Founder’s Hall, the central building of Tanjōji Temple, functions as the main hall dedicated to Nichiren Shōnin. A statue of Nichiren Shōnin is enshrined inside, and it serves as a place of prayer for many visitors. While the architectural style inherits the traditions of Nichiren Buddhist temples, it also incorporates modern earthquake-resistant construction.
Niomon Gate
The first thing you see as you proceed along the approach to the temple is the magnificent Niomon Gate. Kongo Rikishi statues are positioned on either side, welcoming visitors. This gate, symbolizing the dignity of Tanjōji Temple, is a popular photo spot.
Ryuo-do Hall
The Ryuo-do Hall is a building deeply connected to the legend of Nichiren Shonin’s birth. According to tradition, when Nichiren Shonin was born, clear water gushed from a well in the garden, and schools of sea bream leaped from the sea. The Ryuo-do Hall was built to commemorate this miraculous event, and it enshrines the dragon god, the guardian deity of the sea.
Bell Tower and Bell Gate
Within the temple grounds is a beautiful bell tower, and the sound of the temple bell resonates throughout Kominato at a fixed time each day. This bell sound is an important time-telling sound for the local people, and it makes the presence of Tanjoji Temple a daily reminder.
Annual Events
Tanjoji Temple holds various Buddhist events throughout the year.
Major Annual Events
February 16th – Nichiren Shonin’s Birthday Celebration
This is the most important Buddhist service celebrating Nichiren Shonin’s birthday. Many monks and believers gather from all over the country for a grand memorial service.
October 12th & 13th – Oeshiki Festival
A memorial service commemorating the death anniversary of Nichiren Shonin, featuring traditional events such as a lantern procession. At night, the lanterns illuminate the temple grounds in a magical way.
Events in May & June
From spring to early summer, various Buddhist services, including the Flower Festival, are held, reflecting the changing seasons.
About Visiting and Viewing
Visiting Hours and Admission Fees
The grounds of Tanjoji Temple are generally open to visitors. Opening hours may vary depending on the season, but are usually accessible from early morning until evening. For viewing the interiors of special buildings, it is recommended to check in advance.
Etiquette for Visiting Temples
When visiting a temple, please observe the following basic manners:
- Bow when passing through the Niomon Gate
- Quietly clasp your hands together and bow in the Soshido Hall
- Take photographs only in designated areas
- Maintain silence within the temple grounds
- Remove your hat inside buildings
Access Information
Access by Train
The nearest station is Awa-Kominato Station on the JR Sotobo Line. You can reach Tanjoji Temple from the station using the following methods:
- Local Bus: Approximately 5 minutes, get off at Tanjoji-mae bus stop.
- Walking: Approximately 20 minutes, enjoy the scenic coastal views.
- Taxi: Approximately 5 minutes
Access by Car
From Tokyo
- Approximately 2 hours via Keiyo Expressway and Tateyama Expressway
- Via National Route 410 and Prefectural Route 24 from Kimitsu IC
Parking
Parking is available for visitors within and around the temple grounds. During long holidays and major events, congestion is expected, so we recommend using public transportation.
Location
183 Kominato, Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture 299-5501
Tanjoji Temple, Kumenan-cho, Okayama Prefecture (A Place Associated with Honen Shonin)
Sacred Birthplace of Honen Shonin
Tanjoji Temple, located in Kumenan-cho, Kume-gun, Okayama Prefecture, is a temple built on the birthplace of Honen Shonin (Honenbo Genku), the founder of the Jodo sect. Honen Shonin was born here on April 7, 1133 (Chosho 2), the son of Urushiyama Tokikuni and Hata no Uji. His childhood name was Seishimaru.
Founded by Kumagai Naozane
Tanjoji Temple was founded in 1193 (Kenkyu 4) by Kumagai Naozane (Rensho Hoshi), a disciple of Honen Shonin. Kumagai Naozane converted the former residence of the Urushiyama family, the birthplace of Honen Shonin, into a temple, commemorating his master’s birth.
Kumagai Naozane is a warrior who appears in the Tale of the Heike. He is known for killing Taira no Atsumori at the Battle of Ichinotani, then, feeling the impermanence of life, becoming a monk and a disciple of Honen Shonin.
The Life of Honen Shonin and His Birthplace Temple
At the age of nine, Honen Shonin suffered a tragedy when his father, Tokikuni, was killed in a night attack by a warrior named Minamoto no Musha Sadaaki. However, his father, on his deathbed, left the will: “Do not harbor resentment towards your enemies. Enter the Buddhist order and save people without distinction between friend and foe.”
Following his father’s teachings, Seishimaru (Honen) entered the Buddhist order and later founded the Jodo sect, spreading the teaching that anyone can attain rebirth in the Pure Land by chanting “Namu Amida Butsu.”
Kannon Hall (Oshichi Kannon)
Within the temple grounds is the Kannon Hall, affectionately known as “Oshichi Kannon.” This Kannon statue is believed to grant blessings for safe childbirth and child-rearing, and is revered by the local people.
Oeshiki Ceremony and Twenty-Five Bodhisattva Procession
Every year, Tanjoji Temple holds a magnificent memorial service called the “Grand Memorial Service for the 25 Bodhisattvas and Heavenly Children in Memory of Honen Shonin’s Parents.” In this event, monks and believers dressed as the 25 Bodhisattvas recreate the scene of welcoming the deceased from the Pure Land, with a splendid procession parading through the temple grounds.
This procession is a traditional event that has continued since the Middle Ages and is highly regarded as a masterpiece of Pure Land Buddhist art.
First Temple of the 25 Sacred Sites of Honen Shonin
Tanjoji Temple in Okayama is designated as the first temple of the “25 Sacred Sites of Honen Shonin,” serving as the starting point for pilgrimages to places associated with Honen Shonin. Many pilgrims from all over Japan visit to commemorate the teachings of Honen Shonin.
Access Information (Okayama – Tanjoji Temple)
Train/Bus
- Get off at “Tanjoji Station” on the JR Tsuyama Line, approximately 10 minutes on foot.
Car
- Approximately 20 minutes from the Innosho Interchange on the Chugoku Expressway
- Approximately 50 minutes from the Okayama Interchange on the Okayama Expressway
Location
808 Satokata, Kumenan-cho, Kume-gun, Okayama Prefecture
Tanjoji Temple (Honmon Butsuryu Sect), Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
About Tanjoji Temple in Kyoto
There is also a temple named Tanjoji in Ubayagi-cho, Takoyakushi-dori Muromachi Nishi-iru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City. This temple belongs to the Honmon Butsuryu Sect and is a different sect from the Tanjoji Temples in Chiba and Okayama.
Location
207 Ubayagi-cho, Takoyakushi-dori Muromachi Nishi-iru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 604-8213
Honmon Butsuryu-shu is a Buddhist sect that, while based on the teachings of Nichiren Shonin, has developed its own unique style and is spreading its influence mainly in Kyoto.
Points to Note When Visiting Tanjoji Temple
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
The cherry blossoms in the temple grounds are in full bloom, and the fresh greenery is beautiful. The contrast between the sea and the cherry blossoms is particularly stunning at Tanjoji Temple in Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture.
Summer (June-August)
The greenery deepens, and the temple grounds are enveloped in deep silence. Early morning visits are recommended.
Autumn (September-November)
The autumn leaves are beautiful, and the temple is especially crowded with visitors during the Oeshiki festival in October.
Winter (December-February)
The Nichiren Shonin Birthday Celebration on February 16th (Chiba) and the tranquil winter atmosphere of the temple grounds offer a special charm.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Around Tanjoji Temple, Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture
Tai-no-ura
Tai-no-ura, located very close to Tanjoji Temple, is a sea area inhabited by sea bream, a special natural monument associated with the legend of Nichiren Shonin’s birth. You can observe the sea bream from a sightseeing boat.
Seichōji Temple
This temple is where Nichiren Shonin became a monk and underwent ascetic training. It is a famous temple that many visitors visit in conjunction with Tanjoji Temple.
Kominato Port
This fishing port offers fresh seafood, and local restaurants serve delicious seafood dishes.
Around Tanjoji Temple, Kumenan Town, Okayama Prefecture
Honen Shonin’s Mausoleum
A short distance from Tanjoji Temple are the tombs of Honen Shonin’s parents and other related sites. Tourism in the Mimasaka Region
Visiting this area in conjunction with other tourist attractions in the Mimasaka region, such as Tsuyama Castle Ruins and Yunogo Onsen, is highly recommended.
Etiquette and Manners for Visiting a Temple
Nichiren Buddhism Visiting Etiquette (Tanjoji Temple, Chiba)
- Bow at the Niomon Gate before entering the temple grounds.
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Join your hands in prayer in front of the Founder’s Hall and chant “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo.”
- Offer your donation and bow deeply.
- Visit each hall on the temple grounds in order.
Jodo Buddhism Visiting Etiquette (Tanjoji Temple, Okayama)
- Bow at the main gate.
- Cleanse yourself at the water basin.
- Join your hands in prayer in front of the main hall and chant “Namu Amida Butsu.”
- Pray quietly while chanting the Nembutsu.
- Bow and exit.
Cultural Value and Modern Significance of Tanjoji Temple
Role as a Center of Faith
Tanjoji Temple is not merely a tourist destination; it still functions as a living place of faith. Tanjoji Temple in Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture, is a major head temple of the Nichiren sect, and Tanjoji Temple in Kumenan Town, Okayama Prefecture, is an important sacred site of the Jodo sect, serving as spiritual pillars for followers of each sect.
Preservation of Regional Culture
Each Tanjoji temple plays a crucial role in preserving traditional culture in its respective region. Through annual events and festivals, they strengthen community bonds and pass on traditional religious culture to future generations.
Value as a Tourism Resource
Tanjoji temples, with their high historical and cultural value, are also important tourism resources for their regions. In particular, Tanjoji Temple in Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture, is a key point on the Boso Peninsula’s tourist route, attracting many tourists from both Japan and abroad.
Events and Experience Programs
Sutra Copying and Buddha Image Copying Experiences
Many Tanjoji temples offer sutra copying and Buddha image copying experience programs that are open to the public. The experience of calming the mind in the tranquil temple grounds and carefully copying each character of the sutras provides valuable mental respite for modern people.
Zen Meditation and Practice Sessions
Regular Zen meditation and practice sessions are held, with programs available for beginners. Under the guidance of monks, you can learn correct posture and breathing techniques.
Temple Lodging Experience
Some Tanjoji temples offer temple lodging, allowing you to experience temple life while staying overnight. You can participate in morning services, enjoy vegetarian cuisine, and experience a different pace of life.
Inquiries about Tanjoji Temples
For detailed inquiries about each Tanjoji temple, please check their official website or contact them by phone. It is recommended to check event schedules, visiting hours, and reservation information for experience programs in advance.
Kominato Tanjoji Temple, Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture
The official website provides detailed information on the latest events, temple grounds, and access.
Tanjoji Temple, Kumenan Town, Okayama Prefecture
Information on historical sites related to Honen Shonin can be found on the Kumenan Town tourism information website and temple guide.
Summary
Temples bearing the name “Tanjoji” (meaning “birthplace temple”) are special temples, each built on the birthplace of a high-ranking Buddhist priest who played a significant role in the history of Japanese Buddhism. The Tanjoji in Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture, associated with Nichiren Shonin; the Tanjoji in Kumenan Town, Okayama Prefecture, associated with Honen Shonin; and the Tanjoji of the Honmon Butsuryu sect in Kyoto—each possessing its own unique history and culture.
In particular, the Tanjoji in Kominato, Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture, is an important sacred site as the head temple of the Nichiren sect, attracting many worshippers from all over the country. It boasts numerous points of interest, including the Founder’s Hall and the Dragon King Hall. Its history of overcoming two tsunami disasters and being rebuilt in its current location speaks to the power of faith and the strong will of the people.
The Tanjoji in Okayama Prefecture, built on the site of the birthplace of Honen Shonin, the founder of the Jodo sect, is a valuable place that conveys the origins of Pure Land Buddhism. Traditional events such as the Twenty-Five Bodhisattva Procession preserve the form of medieval Pure Land faith.
Visiting these Tanjoji temples is not merely sightseeing; it will be a valuable experience to connect with the history and culture of Japanese Buddhism and to trace the footsteps of our ancestors’ faith. By understanding the unique charm of each Tanjoji temple and offering prayers in a peaceful state of mind, we can gain many insights and lessons that will benefit us living in the modern age.
