Complete Guide to Ryuzoji Temple (Asahikawa City, Hokkaido) | History, Access, and Memorial Service Details
Located in Shunkodai, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, Ryuzoji Temple belongs to the Shingon Buddhist Sect’s Manji Religious Association. It serves as a center of local faith and is used by many for memorial services and Buddhist rituals. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Ryuzoji Temple, including detailed information, access methods, and services offered.
Basic Information about Ryuzoji Temple
Official Name and Location
Official Name: Hoshuzan Ryuzoji Temple
Location: 4-7-15, Shunkodai 5-jo, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido 071-8145
Ryuzoji Temple is located in the Shunkodai district of Asahikawa City, within a quiet residential area. This area is northwest of Asahikawa city center and is characterized by its peaceful environment.
Sect and Doctrine
Ryuzoji Temple belongs to the Shingon Sect Various Branches United Sect. Shingon Buddhism is a sect of esoteric Buddhism founded by Kobo Daishi Kukai, and it preaches the doctrine of attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime. The Shingon Sect Various Branches United Sect is an organization that, while based on the doctrines of Shingon Buddhism, conducts missionary activities adapted to modern society.
Contact Information
Phone Number: 0166-54-3451
For inquiries regarding memorial services, ceremonies, and other matters related to the temple, please contact the above phone number. Some services require advance reservations, so we recommend checking before your visit.
How to Access Ryuzoji Temple
Access by Public Transportation
Ryuzoji Temple can be accessed using public transportation.
Access by Bus:
- Approximately 6 minutes on foot from the Dohoku Bus “Shiei Jutaku-mae” bus stop
- Approximately 20-30 minutes by bus from Asahikawa Station
Ryuzoji Temple is relatively easy to access by using the Dohoku Bus routes operating within Asahikawa city. Bus timetables may vary depending on the season and day of the week, so it is recommended to check the Dohoku Bus official website in advance.
Access by Car
From Asahikawa City Center:
- The route from National Route 40 towards Shunkodai is convenient
- Approximately 15-20 minutes by car from Asahikawa Station
- Please inquire with the temple in advance regarding parking availability
Shunkodai is located in the northwestern part of Asahikawa city, so you can arrive smoothly by entering the address (4-7-15 Shunkodai 5-jo, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido) into your car navigation system.
Map and Surrounding Environment
Ryuzoji Temple is located in Shunkodai 5-jo 4-chome, and the surrounding area is a residential area. The surrounding area is quiet and peaceful, with municipal housing and private residences. The Shunkodai district is a relatively new residential area within Asahikawa City, offering a well-developed living environment.
History and Origins of Ryuzoji Temple
History of Shingon Buddhist Temples in Hokkaido
The history of Buddhist temples in Hokkaido is relatively recent compared to Honshu. With the development of Hokkaido since the Meiji era, many immigrants came from various parts of Honshu, and temples of various sects were established along with them.
Shingon Buddhist temples were also established throughout Hokkaido as spiritual havens for the settlers and as places to support the faith of those who had left their hometowns. Ryuzoji Temple, within this historical context, has played a role in spreading Shingon Buddhism in the Asahikawa region and supporting the religious lives of local residents.
Meaning of the Mountain Name, Hojuzan
The mountain name of Ryuzoji Temple, “Hojuzan,” has a deep meaning. Hoju refers to the wish-fulfilling jewel in Buddhism, considered a miraculous jewel that grants wishes. This temple’s mountain name embodies the wish that the temple be a place where people’s wishes are received and where peace of mind and happiness are brought.
Services Offered at Ryuzoji Temple
Funeral and Memorial Service Services
Ryuzoji Temple offers the following Buddhist services:
Funeral-related:
- Chanting of sutras at the wake and funeral
- Conferring of a posthumous Buddhist name
- Chanting of sutras at the crematorium
- First seven-day memorial service
Memorial Services:
- Forty-ninth-day memorial service
- Annual memorial services such as the first and third anniversaries
- Obon memorial service
- Higan memorial service
- Monthly memorial service
We conduct respectful memorial services in accordance with the customs of the Shingon sect, praying for the repose of the deceased and valuing the peace of mind of the bereaved family.
Perpetual Memorial Service and Interment Services
In modern society, an increasing number of people face problems such as having no successor to their graves or living far away and finding it difficult to manage their graves. Ryūzōji Temple offers perpetual memorial service services to meet these modern needs.
Features of Perpetual Memorial Service:
- The temple takes responsibility for perpetual memorial services.
- No need for a grave successor.
- Regular memorial services are held.
- Choice of individual burial space or communal burial.
For detailed information on the costs and conditions of perpetual memorial services, we recommend contacting the temple directly. They can propose the most suitable plan for your individual circumstances.
Prayer and Memorial Service Services
Ryūzōji Temple also accepts daily prayers and memorial services.
Various Prayers:
- Prayer for Family Safety
- Prayer for Business Prosperity
- Prayer for Traffic Safety
- Prayer for Recovery from Illness
- Prayer for Academic Success
Memorial Services for Stillborn Children and Ancestors:
- Memorial Services for Stillborn Children
- Pet Memorial Services (Please confirm availability)
- Memorial Services for Ancestral Generations
Shingon Buddhism’s esoteric prayers may involve special rituals such as Goma fire ceremonies. Please consult the temple in advance regarding the specific content of the prayers.
About the Shingon Sect Union Manji Religious Group
Characteristics of the Religious Group
The Shingon Sect Union Manji Religious Group is a religious group that, while based on the doctrines of Shingon Buddhism, develops its own unique missionary activities. It aims to bring the teachings of Kobo Daishi Kukai to life in the modern age, striving for peace of mind for people and harmony in society.
Teachings of Shingon Buddhism
Shingon Buddhism is a sect of esoteric Buddhism and has the following characteristics:
Attaining Buddhahood in This Life:
This teaching states that one can become a Buddha in this very body. Instead of attaining enlightenment after long periods of training, it is believed that one can reach the state of Buddhahood in this life through correct practice.
Three Mysteries Empowerment:
This is a practice method that involves unifying the three elements of body (physical actions), speech (chanting mantras), and mind (mental concentration) to become one with the power of Buddha.
Mandala:
An iconographic representation of the truth of the universe. In Shingon Buddhism, two mandalas, the Taizokai Mandala and the Kongokai Mandala, are considered important.
About Asahikawa City and the Shunkodai District
Overview of Asahikawa City
Asahikawa City is the second largest city in Hokkaido and the central city of the northern Hokkaido region. With a population of approximately 330,000, it has developed as a key economic, cultural, and transportation hub. Besides being nationally known for Asahiyama Zoo, the area boasts a rich natural environment and beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
Characteristics of the Shunkodai District
The Shunkodai district is a residential area located in the northwestern part of Asahikawa City, developed since the 1970s. It is a systematically developed residential area with well-established infrastructure such as roads and parks.
Characteristics of the District:
- Quiet residential area
- Abundant parks and green spaces
- Abundant educational and commercial facilities
- Relatively new residential area
Ryuzoji Temple plays an important role in the Shunkodai district as a spiritual center for local residents.
Manners When Visiting Temples
Regarding Attire
When visiting temples, please pay attention to the following points.
For Buddhist memorial services:
- Mourning attire or clothing in subdued colors such as black or navy.
- Men: Suit and tie.
- Women: Suit or dress.
- Avoid flashy accessories.
For visits and consultations:
- Clean and presentable attire.
- Avoid revealing clothing.
- Sandals and flip-flops are inappropriate.
Manners for visiting the temple
Etiquette in the main hall:
- Bow before entering the main hall.
- Enter the hall quietly.
- Join hands in prayer before the main image.
- In Shingon Buddhism, chant “Namu Daishi Henjo Kongo.”
- Bow again upon leaving.
Other points to note:
- Set your mobile phone to silent mode.
- Refrain from loud conversations.
- Obtain permission before taking photographs.
- Smoking is prohibited on the temple grounds.
Facilities and tourist spots around Ryuzoji Temple
Facilities in the Shunkodai Area
Shunkodai Park: The Shunkodai area has several parks, serving as places of relaxation for local residents.
Commercial Facilities: There are supermarkets and convenience stores in the area, making daily shopping convenient.
Tourist Attractions in Asahikawa City
When visiting Ryuzoji Temple, you can also enjoy sightseeing in Asahikawa City.
Asahiyama Zoo: Famous as Japan’s northernmost zoo, it has gained nationwide popularity for its unique “behavioral exhibit” method.
Asahikawa City Museum: A facility where you can learn about Ainu culture and the history of Asahikawa.
Heiwadori Shopping Park: A shopping street known as Japan’s first permanent pedestrian zone.
Asahikawa Ramen: Asahikawa is famous for its soy sauce-based ramen, and there are many ramen restaurants in the city.
The Role of Temples in Modern Society
As a Center of the Local Community
In modern society, temples serve not only as religious institutions but also as centers of local communities. Ryuzoji Temple, in the Shunkodai area, fulfills the following functions:
A Place of Spiritual Support:
- A venue for ceremonies at life’s milestones
- A place to discuss worries and anxieties
- A space to find spiritual peace
Cultural Inheritance:
- Transmission of Buddhist culture
- Implementation of traditional events
- Preservation of local history
End-of-Life Planning Support
In Japan, which is facing a super-aging society, interest in end-of-life planning (preparing for the end of life) is increasing. Ryuzoji Temple also accepts consultations regarding end-of-life planning, such as the following:
End-of-Life Planning Consultation Topics:
- Choosing a grave
- Considering perpetual memorial services
- Receiving a posthumous Buddhist name
- Pre-funeral consultation
- Writing an end-of-life notebook
By preparing in advance, both the individual and their family can face the end of life with peace of mind. ## Options for Graves and Memorial Services
Traditional Graves
Family Graves:
A family-unit grave passed down through generations. A tombstone is erected, and the family manages it for generations.
Advantages:
- Allows for ancestral memorial services
- A sense of family connection
- Allows for individual tombstones
Disadvantages:
- Requires a successor
- Costs and effort of maintenance
- Difficult to visit if living far away
Perpetual Memorial Services
Communal Perpetual Memorial Service:
A form where the remains of multiple people are interred in a single burial chamber. Relatively inexpensive.
Individual Perpetual Memorial Service:
A form where remains are interred individually for a certain period, and then communally after that period. Balances individuality and cost-effectiveness.
Tree Burial:
A nature-oriented burial method where a tree serves as a grave marker instead of a tombstone. Availability varies by temple.
Columbarium
A form of interment where cremated remains are placed in an indoor facility. Visits are possible regardless of weather, and management is easy. Please inquire directly regarding the availability of a columbarium at Ryuzoji Temple.
Timing and Content of Memorial Services
Main Timings of Memorial Services
First Seven Days (Shonanoka):
7th day after death. Currently, this is often held on the day of the funeral.
Forty-Ninth Day (Shijukunichi):
49th day after death. An important memorial service marking the end of the mourning period. Interment is often performed at this time.
One Hundredth Day (Hyakkanichi):
100th day after death. Considered a time when the grief of the bereaved family heals.
First Anniversary (Isshuki):
1st year after death. The beginning of annual memorial services.
Third Anniversary (Sankaiki):
2nd year after death (3rd year in the traditional Japanese age counting system).
7th, 13th, 17th, 23rd, 27th, and 33rd Anniversary Memorial Services:
Memorial services are held regularly thereafter. The 33rd or 50th anniversary memorial service is often the final one.
Preparations for Memorial Services
The following preparations are necessary when holding a memorial service:
- Determining the Date: Consult with the temple to decide on a date (often on a holiday around the anniversary of death).
- Contacting Attendees: Send invitations at least one month in advance.
- Preparing the Offering: The amount varies depending on the region and temple, so confirmation is necessary.
- Preparing Offerings: Fruits, sweets, flowers, etc.
- Arranging the Meal: Preparation of a meal (Otsukai) after the memorial service.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
About Temple Membership
Q: How can I become a temple member of Ryuzoji Temple?
A: Please contact the temple directly regarding the existence of a temple membership system and the conditions for joining. Generally, payment of an entrance fee and regular maintenance fees are required.
Regarding Costs
Q: How much do memorial services and perpetual memorial services cost?
A: Costs vary depending on the type and content of the memorial service. Please consult the temple directly for specific amounts. Generally, the offering for a memorial service is around 30,000 to 100,000 yen, and for perpetual memorial services it is around 100,000 to 500,000 yen, but this varies greatly depending on the region and temple.
Regarding Sects
Q: Can I request a memorial service even if I belong to a different sect?
A: While we generally perform memorial services according to Shingon Buddhist customs, we may be able to discuss services for those of other sects. Please contact the temple for details.
Regarding Reservations
Q: Is a reservation necessary before visiting?
A: Reservations are required for services such as memorial services or consultations where the head priest’s attention is needed. Even for simple visits, contacting the temple in advance will ensure more attentive service.
Summary
Ryuzoji Temple (Hojuzan Ryuzoji) is a Shingon Buddhist temple located at 4-7-15, Shunkodai 5-jo, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido. It is a Shingon Buddhist temple belonging to the Manji Kyodan (卍 Sect) and serves as a center of faith for local residents, offering various Buddhist services including funerals, memorial services, and perpetual memorial services.
It boasts excellent access from Asahikawa city center, being approximately a 6-minute walk from the “Shiei Jutaku-mae” bus stop (Dohoku Bus) and a convenient 15-20 minute drive from Asahikawa Station.
In modern society, concerns regarding memorial services are diversifying, including issues with grave inheritance and increasing interest in end-of-life planning. Ryuzoji Temple offers flexible services tailored to individual circumstances, from traditional memorial services to perpetual memorial services.
For consultations regarding memorial services, perpetual memorial services, etc., please contact us directly by phone (0166-54-3451). By consulting in advance, you can find the most appropriate form of memorial service for the deceased.
If you are looking for peace of mind and a place to honor your deceased loved ones in the Shunkodai district of Asahikawa City, why not visit Ryuzoji Temple? In a tranquil setting, you can calmly remember your loved ones and honor your ancestors.
