Senpuku-ji Temple (Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture) | The Charm and Cemetery Information of a Historic Jodo Shinshu Takada-ha Temple
Located in Kurihara-chuo, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Senpuku-ji Temple is a Jodo Shinshu temple belonging to the Takada-ha sect. As a historically rooted temple in the community, it provides cemeteries, conducts memorial services, and plays a central role in the local community. This article comprehensively introduces information useful for those considering visiting or purchasing a burial plot at Senpuku-ji Temple, from basic information and access methods to details about cemeteries and perpetual memorial services, and facilities.
Basic Information about Senpuku-ji Temple
Location and Contact Information
Address: 4-17-12 Kurihara-chuo, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture 252-0014
Phone Number: 046-251-3473
Corporate Number: 1021005004850
Senpuku-ji Temple is located in the Kurihara-chuo district of Zama City. While situated in a quiet residential area, it is easily accessible from Sagamihara City and Ebina City.
Sect and Religious Characteristics
Senpuku-ji Temple is a Jodo Shinshu temple belonging to the Shinshu Takada-ha sect. The Shinshu Takada-ha is a branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, founded by Shinbutsu Shonin, a direct disciple of Shinran Shonin, and its head temple, Senshuji Temple, is located in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture.
The teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism are based on the concept of salvation through the power of Amida Buddha’s original vow, and Senpuku-ji Temple also conducts Buddhist services and rituals based on this teaching. While there are 39 temples named Senpuku-ji throughout Japan, the one in Zama City is one of the temples that continues to engage in activities closely connected to the local community.
Management and Operation System
Senpuku-ji Temple is directly managed and operated by the religious corporation Senpuku-ji. As a temple cemetery, it operates based on the danka (parishioner) system, with the chief priest at the center of operations, handling everything from cemetery management to the execution of memorial services and maintaining relationships with parishioners.
How to Access Senpuku-ji Temple
Access by Train and Bus
There are several routes to access Senpuku-ji Temple using public transportation.
Nearest Station: Sotetsu Main Line “Sagamino Station” (approx. 1.6km, approx. 20-minute walk)
Also accessible from Odakyu Line “Kashiwadai Station”
Recommended Route (Bus)
- Take a bus from the north exit of Sotetsu Main Line “Sagamino Station”
- Get off at “Jinja-mae Bus Stop”
- Senpuku-ji Temple is approximately a 1-minute walk from the bus stop
Using the bus significantly reduces the 20-minute walk from the station. It’s especially convenient for the elderly or those with a lot of luggage for grave visits.
Access on Foot
Walking from Sagamino Station takes approximately 20 minutes. On a fine day, you can enjoy the local scenery while walking.
Access by Car
Senpuku-ji Temple has a parking lot, making it convenient to access by private car.
Access from Major Roads:
- Approximately 20 minutes from the Tomei Expressway “Yokohama-Machida IC”
- Accessible from major roads such as National Route 246 and Prefectural Route 40
- Enter the address “4-17-12 Kurihara-Chuo, Zama City” or the phone number into your car navigation system.
Parking is available for memorial services and grave visits, and can accommodate multiple vehicles. It may get crowded during peak seasons such as Obon and Higan, so it is recommended to allow ample time for your visit.
Surrounding Environment and Access Notes
The area around Senpuku-ji Temple is a residential area, offering a quiet and peaceful environment. For first-time visitors, it is recommended to carefully check for signs and landmarks as the temple is located within a residential area. The nearest bus stop is “Jinja-mae Bus Stop,” so it is convenient to remember this stop name when using the bus.
Information on Senpuku-ji Temple’s Cemetery
Types and Characteristics of Cemeteries
Senpuku-ji Temple operates as a temple cemetery, and its management is based on the teachings of the Shinshu Takada sect. The following are characteristics of a temple cemetery:
- Religious Background: Memorial services based on the doctrines of the Shinshu Takada sect
- Management System: Direct management and memorial services by the head priest
- Community: Connections among parishioners and a local community centered around the temple
- Permanence: Stable management by a temple with a long history
About Perpetual Memorial Services
In recent years, due to the declining birthrate, aging population, and changes in family structures, the demand for perpetual memorial services has increased. Senpuku-ji Temple also accepts consultations regarding perpetual memorial services, addressing the needs of those without successors or those who do not want to burden their descendants with grave maintenance.
Features of Perpetual Memorial Services:
- The temple takes responsibility for performing perpetual memorial services.
- Annual management fees are often waived or reduced.
- Multiple options are available, such as communal graves and individual graves.
- Some temples accept people of all denominations (confirmation required).
About Cemetery Costs
The cost of purchasing a cemetery plot varies greatly depending on the size of the plot, location, and type of tombstone. When considering purchasing a cemetery plot at Senpuku-ji Temple, you should consider the following cost items.
Main Cost Items:
- Perpetual Use Fee: The cost of acquiring the right to use the cemetery plot.
- Tombstone Cost: The cost of the tombstone itself and construction.
- Management Fee: Annual cemetery management fee.
- Becoming a Temple Member: The cost of becoming a temple member (varies depending on the temple).
- Memorial Service Costs: Costs for memorial services such as the eye-opening ceremony.
For specific amounts, it is recommended to contact Senpuku-ji Temple directly, as these will vary depending on the plot conditions and time of year. It is important to obtain a detailed estimate during your visit and consider it in light of your budget.
Grave Closure/Relocation Services
In modern times, managing graves located far away has become difficult, and more people are considering grave closure or relocation (relocating graves). Senpukuji Temple accepts consultations regarding relocation from other cemeteries to Senpukuji Temple.
Grave Closure/Relocation Process:
- Consultation with the current cemetery administrator and obtaining permission
- Confirmation of acceptance at the relocation site (Senpukuji Temple)
- Administrative procedures (obtaining a relocation permit)
- Removal and transfer of remains
- Interment ceremony at the new cemetery
Grave closure involves legal procedures and costs, so it is important to proceed while consulting with experts and temples. Senpukuji Temple also provides such consultations, so we recommend contacting us by phone first.
Senpuku-ji Temple Facilities and Equipment
Memorial Service Facilities and Multipurpose Hall
Senpuku-ji Temple is equipped with memorial service facilities and a multipurpose hall, providing an environment suitable for various Buddhist ceremonies.
Available Memorial Services and Events:
- Funeral and memorial service
- Memorial services such as the 7th day and 49th day
- Annual memorial services such as the 1st and 3rd anniversaries
- Joint memorial services during Obon and Higan
- Post-service meals (depending on facilities)
The memorial service facilities are equipped with air conditioning and heating, allowing for comfortable services regardless of the season. Chair seating is often provided, ensuring that elderly attendees can participate without difficulty.
Parking
Senpuku-ji Temple has a parking lot for visitors, making it accessible by private car. It is recommended to check the size and number of parking spaces before visiting.
The parking lot may become crowded, especially during peak seasons such as Obon (August 13th-16th) and Ohigan (the seven-day period centered around the spring and autumn equinoxes). If visiting during these times, it’s advisable to arrive early or consider using public transportation.
Administration Building & Shop
Senpuku-ji Temple has an administration building that handles cemetery management and various consultations. The administration building offers the following services:
- Consultations and contract procedures regarding cemeteries
- Reservations and consultations for memorial services
- Sale of grave-visiting supplies (incense, flowers, etc.)
- Rental of cleaning equipment
- Handling various inquiries regarding the temple
If a shop is also available, you can purchase necessary items such as flowers and incense for grave visits, making it possible to visit empty-handed. However, it is recommended to check the opening hours and available products in advance.
Memorial Services and Ceremonies at Senpuku-ji Temple
Annual Events
Senpuku-ji Temple, as a temple of the Shinshu Takada sect, holds various memorial services and ceremonies throughout the year.
Main Annual Events:
- Shōshō-e (January): New Year’s memorial service
- Spring Equinox Service (March): Ancestor memorial service centered around the spring equinox
- Hanamatsuri (April 8th): Memorial service celebrating the birth of Buddha
- Urabon-e (August): Obon memorial service, Tanagyo (recitation of sutras at the altar)
- Autumn Equinox Service (September): Ancestor memorial service centered around the autumn equinox
- Hōon-kō (around November): The most important memorial service commemorating the death anniversary of Shinran Shōnin
These events are sometimes open to the general public as well as temple parishioners. Hōon-kō, in particular, is considered the most important memorial service in Jodo Shinshu Buddhism and attracts many visitors.
Request for Individual Memorial Services
Senpuku-ji Temple accepts requests for individual memorial services.
Available Memorial Services:
- Funeral/Memorial Service
- First Seven Day and Forty-Ninth Day Memorial Services
- Hundredth Day Memorial Service
- First, Third, Seventh, Thirteenth, Seventeenth, Twenty-Third, Twenty-Seventh, Thirty-Third, and Fiftieth Anniversary Memorial Services
- Interment Ceremony
- Eye-Opening Ceremony (at the time of grave construction)
The date and content of the memorial service will be decided in consultation with the head priest. Providing information in advance regarding the scale of the service, the number of attendees, and whether or not a meal will be served will allow for smoother preparation.
Characteristics of Jodo Shinshu Memorial Services
Jodo Shinshu memorial services have characteristics that differ from other Buddhist sects.
- No memorial tablets used: A Buddhist name scroll or family register is used instead.
- Buddhist name, not a posthumous Buddhist name: The format is “Shaku ○○”.
- No purifying salt used: Death is not considered impure.
- Incense offering etiquette: Incense is not pressed to the forehead.
- Namu Amida Butsu: The Nembutsu is chanted.
Understanding these characteristics before attending a memorial service allows for a deeper understanding of the teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.
About the Danka System
Benefits of Becoming a Danka
When purchasing a burial plot at Senpuku-ji Temple, becoming a Danka is generally required. The Danka system offers the following benefits:
Benefits of Being a Temple Member:
- Peace of Mind: Regular memorial services and Buddhist ceremonies conducted by the head priest.
- Priority Treatment: Priority treatment in scheduling memorial services and other related matters.
- Funeral Support: The temple provides full support during funerals.
- Community: Connections and mutual support among temple members.
- Permanent Management: The cemetery is maintained as long as the temple exists.
- Participation in Buddhist Events: Opportunities to participate in annual events and Dharma talks.
Obligations and Burdens of Temple Members
Becoming a temple member comes with certain obligations and burdens.
Main Obligations and Burdens:
- Maintenance Fee: Annual temple maintenance fee (typically several tens of thousands of yen)
- Cemetery Management Fee: Annual cemetery management fee
- Donations: Cooperation with temple repairs and events (sometimes voluntary)
- Participation in Events: Participation in major events such as Hoonko (not mandatory)
- Offering for Memorial Services: Offering when requesting a memorial service
The burden of being a temple parishioner varies depending on the temple, so it is important to check the details before joining and make a decision only after you are satisfied.
The Decline in Temple Membership and Modern Temple-Parishioner Relationships
In recent years, more and more people are finding the temple membership system burdensome, and the number of cemeteries where you can purchase a burial plot without becoming a parishioner is increasing. However, temple cemeteries have their own unique advantages.
When choosing a temple cemetery like Senpukuji, it is important to fully understand the details of the temple membership system and consider whether it suits your values and lifestyle. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the head priest. Building a relationship in a way that satisfies you is the key to maintaining a long and positive relationship.
Checkpoints When Choosing a Cemetery at Senpuku-ji Temple
Things to Check During Your Visit
When considering purchasing a cemetery plot at Senpuku-ji Temple, be sure to visit the site. We recommend checking the following points during your visit.
Environment & Location:
- Sunlight and ventilation
- Good drainage
- Quietness and atmosphere of the surrounding area
- Overall maintenance of the cemetery
- Size and shape of the plot
Access & Convenience:
- Travel time from home
- Ease of use of public transportation
- Size and usability of the parking lot
- Width and paving condition of pathways within the cemetery
- Accessibility (presence or absence of steps, etc.)
Facilities & Equipment:
- Location and number of water facilities
- Rental of buckets and ladles
- Availability of rest areas
- Cleanliness and number of toilets
- Size and facilities of memorial service facilities
Management & Services:
- Business hours of the management office
- Responsiveness of management staff
- Frequency and scope of cleaning
- Sales of floral tributes, etc.
- Availability of proxy memorial service services
Confirm Transparency of Costs
Purchasing a cemetery plot is a major investment. Regarding costs, be sure to clarify the following points.
- Total amount of perpetual usage fee
- Annual management fee and its use
- Whether or not there is an entrance fee and the amount
- Estimate for tombstone cost (comparison of multiple companies recommended)
- Guideline for offerings at memorial services
- Possibility of future additional costs
It is important to obtain a written estimate and ask questions until you are satisfied with the answers.
Pre-contract confirmation points
Before signing a contract, be sure to confirm the following points:
- Usage rules: Rules and restrictions regarding the use of the cemetery plot
- Succession: Rules regarding the succession of the cemetery plot
- Return: Procedures and conditions for returning the cemetery plot
- Restrictions: Restrictions on the shape and size of the tombstone
- Management entity: The temple’s operational status and future prospects
- Contract details: Fully understand the contents of the contract
Zama City’s temple environment and the positioning of Senpuku-ji Temple
Overview of Zama City
Zama City is a city with a population of approximately 130,000 located almost in the center of Kanagawa Prefecture. Located approximately 40km from central Tokyo and 20km from Yokohama, Zama City has developed as a commuter town.
The city borders Sagamihara, Ebina, Ayase, and Yamato cities, and its convenient transportation links mean many residents commute to Tokyo and Yokohama for work or school.
Temple Culture of Zama City
Zama City has many temples that have supported the region’s history and culture. There are temples of various sects, including Shingon, Soto, Jodo, and Jodo Shinshu, each playing a central role in the local community.
Senpuku-ji Temple, as a Jodo Shinshu temple in Zama City, is an important center for transmitting the teachings of the Shinshu Takada sect.
Senpuku-ji Temple’s Role in the Community
Senpuku-ji Temple is not merely a place to provide cemeteries; it also serves as a spiritual haven for local residents.
- Religious Activities: Holding regular memorial services and Dharma talks
- Community Interaction: Participating in and cooperating with local events
- Educational Activities: Humanistic education through Buddhism
- Consultation Service: Providing consultation on life and end-of-life planning
Through these multifaceted activities, Senpuku-ji Temple serves as one of the cultural and spiritual foundations of Zama City.
Inquiries and Visit Reservations for Senpuku-ji Temple
How to Inquire
You can inquire about Senpuku-ji Temple using the following methods:
Telephone Inquiries:
Phone Number: 046-251-3473
Reception Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (approximate, please confirm)
When making a telephone inquiry, please provide the following information for a smoother process:
- Purpose of inquiry (e.g., cemetery plot purchase, memorial service, general questions)
- Preferred date and time for visit (providing multiple options makes scheduling easier)
- Contact information (for return contact)
Preparations for Your Visit
To make your visit to the cemetery more efficient, please prepare the following:
Things to bring:
- Notebook and writing utensils
- Camera (check if photography is permitted)
- List of questions
- Budget notes
- Family structure and information on successors
Attire:
- Clean and modest clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes (for walking around the cemetery)
- Seasonal clothing for warmth and heat
Examples of questions to ask during a visit
Items to ask the head priest or administrator during your visit:
- Details of perpetual usage fees and annual maintenance fees
- Obligations and burdens of becoming a temple parishioner
- Restrictions on gravestones (size, shape, stone material, etc.)
- How to use and costs of memorial service facilities
- Options and costs of perpetual memorial services
- Rules regarding the succession of the cemetery plot
- Scope of management (how much is managed by the temple)
- Crowds during Obon and Higan
- Parking hours
- Procedures for future grave closure
Senpuku-ji Temple and the Teachings of the Shinshu Takada School
History of the Shinshu Takada School
The Shinshu Takada School is one of the ten schools of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, and its founder is Shinbutsu Shonin (1209-1258), a direct disciple of Shinran Shonin. Its head temple is Senshu-ji Temple (Takada Honzan) in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, and its official name is “Shinshu Takada School Head Temple Senshu-ji.”
Shinbutsu Shonin received direct teachings from Shinran Shonin, and after missionary work in the Kanto region, founded Senshu-ji Temple in Shimotsuke Province (present-day Tochigi Prefecture). Later, he moved to Ise Province (present-day Mie Prefecture) and laid the foundation for the current head temple.
Basic Teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism
Jodo Shinshu Buddhism is a sect that preaches salvation through the power of Amida Buddha’s original vow. Its core teachings are as follows:
Reliance on Other Power: This teaching states that salvation is achieved not through one’s own power (self-power), but through the power of Amida Buddha’s vow (other-power). This does not mean relying on others, but rather acknowledging human limitations and entrusting oneself to the Buddha’s compassion.
The Wicked Are the Salvation Target: This teaching states that ordinary people, filled with worldly desires, are precisely the ones who are saved by Amida Buddha. It is Shinran Shonin’s revolutionary idea that if even good people are saved, then wicked people are even more certainly saved.
Nembutsu: This expresses devotion to Amida Buddha by chanting “Namu Amida Butsu.” However, it is important to note that chanting the Nembutsu is not a condition for salvation, but rather an expression of the joy of being saved.
Practices at Senpuku-ji Temple
At Senpuku-ji Temple, activities are carried out based on these teachings of the Shinshu Takada sect.
- Dharma Talk: Explanation of Buddhist teachings by the head priest
- Daily Service: Morning and evening services and chanting of the Buddha’s name
- Memorial Service: A memorial service in gratitude to Shinran Shonin
- Listening to the Dharma: Providing an opportunity to hear Buddhist teachings
Through these services, parishioners and visitors can encounter Buddhist teachings and gain guidance for their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Q1: Can Senpuku-ji Temple’s cemetery be used regardless of sect?
A: Senpuku-ji Temple is a temple cemetery of the Shinshu Takada sect, so generally, membership as a parishioner is required. We recommend checking directly with the temple regarding sectarian requirements. While the number of cemeteries that accept all sects has increased in recent years, in the case of temple cemeteries, memorial services are generally conducted according to the teachings of the sect.
Q2: What is the difference between a perpetual use fee and a perpetual memorial service fee?
A: A perpetual use fee is the fee for acquiring the right to use a cemetery plot indefinitely; it’s the acquisition of usage rights, not the purchase of the land. On the other hand, a perpetual memorial service fee is the fee for the temple to perform perpetual memorial services. Even if you acquire a cemetery plot by paying a perpetual use fee, it’s generally necessary to pay an additional annual maintenance fee. In the case of perpetual memorial services, the annual maintenance fee is often waived or reduced.
Q3: Are there specific hours for visiting graves?
A: Generally, temple cemeteries are open for visits from sunrise to sunset. However, it’s considered good manners to avoid early mornings and late nights. Hours may be extended during special periods such as Obon and Higan. Please contact Senpuku-ji Temple directly for detailed hours.
Q4: Where can I purchase a tombstone?
A: Tombstones are purchased from a stonemason. Some temples have affiliated stonemasons, while others allow you to choose your own. It’s recommended to obtain quotes from multiple stonemasons and compare prices and services. However, temples may have regulations regarding the size and shape of gravestones, so confirmation is necessary before purchase.
Q5: What should I do if I live far away and cannot visit the grave?
A: If you live far away and visiting the grave is difficult, you have the following options:
- Proxy Memorial Service: Request a temple or specialized company to visit and clean the grave.
- Joint Memorial Service: Participate in a joint memorial service held regularly by the temple (even if you are absent).
- Transition to Perpetual Memorial Service: Consider switching to perpetual memorial service, which has less management burden.
- Grave Closure: Remove the remains and rebury them in a cemetery near your home.
We recommend consulting with Senpuku-ji Temple to find out what kind of support they can offer.
Q6: Can I leave the temple?
A: It is possible to leave the temple (leave the temple), but several procedures are required. First, you must inform the head priest of your intention to leave and discuss it with him. If there is a burial plot, it will be necessary to close the grave and move the remains to another location. You may be asked to pay a fee to leave the temple, but if you are asked for an exorbitant amount, it is recommended that you consult a specialist. Careful communication is important for a smooth departure.
Q7: Can I purchase a burial plot while I am still alive?
A: Yes, it is possible to purchase a burial plot while you are still alive (pre-need grave, pre-arranged tomb). In fact, choosing and preparing a burial plot according to your own wishes is recommended as part of end-of-life planning. Pre-need graves have advantages such as not being subject to inheritance tax, not burdening family members, and allowing you to choose carefully. Senpuku-ji Temple also accepts consultations regarding pre-need graves.
Q8: What should I wear to a memorial service?
A: The appropriate attire for a memorial service varies depending on the type and scale of the service:
- Funeral/First Anniversary: Mourning attire (black formal wear)
- Third Anniversary and beyond: Semi-formal attire or subdued everyday clothing
- Visiting graves during Obon/Higan: Clean everyday clothing
If you are unsure, aim for simple and clean clothing. Avoid bright colors and revealing clothing.
Summary: Find peace of mind at Senpuku-ji Temple
Senpuku-ji Temple in Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a traditional temple based on the teachings of the Shinshu Takada sect, and continues to engage in community-based activities. In addition to providing cemeteries, it provides spiritual support to people through the execution of memorial services, the holding of annual events, and the building of close relationships with its parishioners.
When considering a cemetery at Senpuku-ji Temple, it’s crucial to comprehensively evaluate factors such as accessibility, comprehensive facilities, memorial services based on the teachings of the Shinshu Takada sect, and the details of the temple’s membership system. Be sure to visit the site and speak directly with the head priest and administrators to determine if it’s the best choice for you and your family.
Choosing a cemetery where you can feel truly at peace, as the place where you will spend the end of your life and where your ancestors will rest, is a final gift to your family. Carefully consider whether the environment and teachings offered by Senpuku-ji Temple will bring you and your family peace of mind.
For consultations regarding cemeteries and perpetual memorial services, or to schedule a visit, please contact Senpuku-ji Temple directly (Tel: 046-251-3473). An experienced head priest will carefully answer your questions and address your concerns.
