Complete Guide to Saishoji Temples: A Thorough Explanation of the History, Access, and Characteristics of Saishoji Temples Across Japan
There are several temples named Saishoji throughout Japan. Each has a different history, sect, and cultural background, and has long been cherished as a place of worship rooted in its local community. This article provides a detailed explanation of the history, characteristics, access methods, and events of major Saishoji temples.
What is Saishoji Temple?: Origin of the Name and Distribution Across Japan
The word “Saishoji” is a Buddhist term meaning “most excellent,” and originates from the scripture *Konkomyo Saishōō-kyō*. Because this scripture has been considered important as a scripture for the protection of the nation, many temples adopted the name “Saishoji.”
The reason why Saishoji temples exist throughout Japan lies in the importance of this scripture and the unique historical background of each region. Major Saishoji temples include the historical Saishoji Temple ruins, known as one of Kyoto’s Six Victory Temples; the Saishoji Temple in Edogawa Ward, Tokyo, famous for its Mekki Fudo; and the Saishoji Temple in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, affectionately known as Oiwayama Bishamonten.
Kyoto’s Saishoji Temple: History as one of the Six Victory Temples
Historical Background and Founding
Kyoto’s Saishoji Temple was founded in 1118 (Gen’ei 1) during the late Heian period as an imperial temple by Emperor Toba. As one of a group of temples known as the Six Victory Temples, it held an important position among the victory temples built by Emperors Shirakawa, Toba, and Go-Shirakawa.
The Six Victory Temples are a collective name for six temples: Hoshoji, Sonshoji, Saishoji, Enshoji, Seishoji, and Enshoji. They were named this way because all six contain the character “勝” (shō, meaning victory). These temples were concentrated in the Shirakawa area of Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, and represented a magnificent group of temples reflecting the faith and political intentions of the powerful figures of the time. ### Glory and Decline
Saishoji Temple boasted vast grounds and magnificent halls and pagodas at the time of its founding. However, after the Ōnin War (1467-1477), it was devastated by war and eventually fell into ruin. Currently, only a stone monument remains in Sakyō-ku, Kyoto City, allowing us to only imagine its former glory.
Thanks to the Kyoto City government’s historical site preservation efforts, the location of the Saishoji Temple ruins is clearly recorded, making it an important historical site for history enthusiasts and researchers.
Saishoji Temple (Meiki Fudo) in Edogawa-ku, Tokyo
Basic Information and Features
Saishoji Temple, located in Hirai, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo, is a Tendai sect temple, officially named “Gyūhōzan Myōōin Saishoji.” Widely known as “Meiki Fudo-son,” it is one of the Five Colored Fudo of Edo and attracts many worshippers.
The Five Colored Fudo are five Fudo Myoo statues established during the reign of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Edo shogunate, to protect the five directions of Edo. These are Meguro Fudo, Mejiro Fudo, Meaka Fudo, Meao Fudo, and Mekki Fudo.
History and Origin
According to temple tradition, Saishoji Temple was founded in 860 AD by Ennin (Jikaku Daishi). As an ancient temple with over 1200 years of history, it has been a center of local faith.
The principal image, a statue of Fudo Myoo, is believed to have the power to heal eye diseases, and many worshippers visit, especially those praying for good eye health. During the Edo period, it attracted the faith of ordinary people, and it remains a popular temple today.
Access and Visiting Information
Location: 1-25-32 Hirai, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo
Access:
- Approximately 8 minutes on foot from Hirai Station on the JR Sobu Line
- Parking available (limited spaces; public transportation is recommended)
Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (please check the visiting hours for the main hall)
Admission Fee: Free
While visiting is generally free, hours may be restricted during religious services and events, so it is recommended to check in advance.
Saishoji Temple (Meao Fudo) in Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Features and Beliefs
Saishoji Temple in Taishido, Setagaya-ku, is also known as “Meao Fudo,” one of the Five Colored Fudo. It is a different temple from the Mekki Fudo in Edogawa-ku, and also belongs to the Tendai sect.
Located in a quiet residential area, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for worship, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a beloved temple, both as a place of worship for local residents and for its historical value.
Access Information
Location: 4-15-1 Taishido, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Access:
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Nishi-Taishido Station on the Tokyu Setagaya Line
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Sangenjaya Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line
The temple grounds are relatively compact, but the main hall, Fudo Hall, and other points of interest are concentrated within, allowing for a leisurely visit.
Saishoji Temple (Oiwayama Bishamonten) in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture
Worship as Oiwayama Bishamonten
Saishoji Temple in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, is widely known as “Oiwayama Bishamonten.” With Bishamonten as its principal deity, it is believed to bring blessings for business prosperity, family safety, and protection from evil, and is especially crowded with worshippers during the New Year.
Located on the slopes of Mt. Oiwa, the temple grounds offer a spectacular panoramic view of Ashikaga city, making it a popular spot for worship. Its charm lies in the peaceful atmosphere of being surrounded by nature.
History and Cultural Assets
Saishoji Temple has a long history, serving as a center of local faith for many years. Historical buildings and stone structures remain within the temple grounds, making it an important cultural asset of Ashikaga City.
The Bishamondo Hall, in particular, boasts a magnificent architectural style that captivates visitors. Furthermore, numerous stone Buddha statues and stupas are scattered throughout the grounds, conveying a sense of historical significance.
Access and Tourist Information
Location: 570 Oiwa-cho, Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture
Access:
- Approximately 20 minutes by bus from JR Ryomo Line Ashikaga Station or Tobu Isesaki Line Ashikaga-shi Station, get off at “Oiwa Bishamonten”
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Kita-Kanto Expressway Ashikaga IC
- Parking available (free, approximately 50 spaces)
Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible
Admission Fee: Free
This temple is featured on the Ashikaga City Tourism Association’s official website and is a must-see spot when sightseeing in Ashikaga. There are many other tourist attractions nearby, such as Ashikaga School and Banna-ji Temple.
Saishoji Temple, Ogose Town, Saitama Prefecture
Temple Associated with Minamoto no Yoritomo
Saishoji Temple, located in Ogose Town, Iruma District, Saitama Prefecture, is said to have been built in 1193 (Kenkyu 4) by order of Minamoto no Yoritomo’s retainer, Kodama Untayu. Located at a key point on the pilgrimage route to Jikoji Temple (Tokigawa Town), it has played an important role since the Kamakura period.
Features and Cultural Properties
Designated as a cultural property of Ogose Town, it is a temple of high historical value. Ancient stone structures and buildings remain on the temple grounds, conveying its history from the Kamakura period to the present day.
Location: Doyama, Ogose-machi, Iruma-gun, Saitama Prefecture
As an important temple for learning about local history, its educational value is also highly regarded.
Saishoji Temple of the Shinshu Bukkoji School
As a Jodo Shinshu Temple
Saishoji Temple, belonging to the Shinshu Bukkoji School, is a Jodo Shinshu temple that reveres Shinran Shonin as its founder. It has a history of over 400 years, and the current head priest is the 19th since its founding.
Temple Activities and Role
As a Jodo Shinshu temple, it contributes to the local community through memorial services and Buddhist rituals. The main hall is designed for multi-purpose use and is utilized not only for memorial services but also for community gatherings and events.
Aiming to be an open temple that blends into the town, serving as a “place of support that grows together with the community,” it is also available to answer various consultations and questions. Regarding the cemetery, it accommodates various types of graves and provides services that meet modern needs.
Saishoji Temple and its Stone Garden in Nara Prefecture
The Beauty of the Garden
Saishoji Temple in Nara Prefecture is a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple founded in 1258 during the Kamakura period, and later converted to the Tendai sect.
The most distinctive feature of this temple is its stone garden, created in 1999 by a gardener from Gunma Prefecture. The stone garden, themed around the Thirteen Buddhas, is designed to resemble a mountain range, and its harmony with the moss garden creates a beautiful landscape.
The Thirteen Buddhas Belief and Gardens
The Thirteen Buddhas are guardian Buddhas who protect the deceased and guide them to the Pure Land. These Buddhas correspond to each memorial service from the seventh day after death to the 33rd anniversary. This unique garden, expressing this belief in the form of a stone garden, combines religious meaning with artistic merit.
It is featured in garden guides and is a must-see spot for Japanese garden enthusiasts.
Memorial Services and Events at Saishoji Temple
Annual Events
Saishoji temples throughout Japan hold memorial services and events according to the characteristics of their respective sects and regions.
Main Events:
- New Year’s visit (especially lively at temples enshrining Bishamonten)
- Spring and Autumn Equinox Memorial Services
- Obon Memorial Service
- Various Annual Memorial Services
- Temple Fairs and Festivals
Consultation on Buddhist Matters
Many Saishoji temples accept consultations regarding Buddhist matters such as funerals, memorial services, and memorial services. We strive to provide flexible services tailored to modern lifestyles, offering thorough explanations and advice as needed.
Access to Saishoji Temple and Points for Visiting
Manners During Visits
When visiting a temple, please observe the following basic manners:
- Attire: Please wear clean, understated clothing.
- Photography: Please refrain from taking photos in areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main hall.
- Quietness: Please be quiet on the temple grounds and avoid disturbing other visitors.
- Offerings: There are no set amounts; it’s a matter of personal feeling.
- Goshuin (Temple Stamp): If you wish to receive a Goshuin, please bring your Goshuincho (stamp book).
Parking and Public Transportation
The availability and size of parking vary depending on the Saishoji Temple. Parking lots can become crowded during large events, so we recommend using public transportation whenever possible.
Parking Information Summary:
- Saishoji Temple, Ashikaga City: Free parking available (approx. 50 spaces)
- Saishoji Temple, Edogawa Ward: Parking available (limited spaces)
- Saishoji Temple, Setagaya Ward: No dedicated parking (use nearby coin-operated parking)
Admission Fees and Hours
At most Saishoji temples, entry to the grounds is free and admission is not charged. However, separate fees may be required for special viewings or the treasure hall.
The hours for viewing the interior of the main hall and receiving Goshuin (temple stamps) vary by temple, so it is recommended to check in advance. Generally, reception hours are from 9:00 AM to around 4:00 PM.
Cultural Value and Modern Significance of Saishoji Temples
Historical Value
Saishoji temples throughout Japan are important cultural assets that tell the history of their respective regions. The Saishoji Temple ruins in Kyoto convey the power structure of the Heian period, the Saishoji Temple in Edogawa Ward conveys the popular faith of the Edo period, and the Saishoji Temple in Ashikaga City conveys the local mountain worship.
Center of the Local Community
Even today, Saishoji Temple functions as an important hub for the local community. Through religious services and events, it serves as a place where people gather and interact, strengthening community bonds.
Value as a Tourism Resource
In addition to its historical and cultural value, Saishoji Temple is also important as a tourism resource. In particular, the Saishoji Temple in Ashikaga City attracts many tourists as a recommended tourist spot by the city’s tourism association. The Saishoji Temple in Nara, with its beautiful garden, is also a popular destination for garden enthusiasts.
Summary: The Diversity and Charm of Saishoji Temples
Temples bearing the name Saishoji exist throughout Japan, each with its own unique history and characteristics. From the memories of its glory as one of Kyoto’s Six Victory Temples, to the popular faith of the Five Colored Fudo in Edo, to the Bishamonten worship in Ashikaga, and the Jodo Shinshu Buddhist chanting halls, their forms are diverse.
However, all Saishoji Temples have supported the faith and lives of local people throughout their long history and continue to play an important role even today. As a place to learn history, experience culture, and find peace of mind, Saishoji Temple will undoubtedly continue to be cherished by many people.
When visiting, understanding the unique history and characteristics of each Saishoji Temple and visiting with respect will allow for a deeper experience. We recommend checking access information and maps in advance and planning your visit with ample time.
