Complete Guide to Shoheiji Temple | History, Buddhist Statues, and Access Information
Located in the Shoheiji district of Zushi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Shoheiji Temple is a Jodo sect temple that was formed through the merger of two temples after a fire during the Meiji era. It houses valuable Buddhist statues, including a standing Amida Buddha statue attributed to Jocho and a standing Enmei Jizo Bodhisattva statue attributed to Unkei. This article provides a detailed introduction to Shoheiji Temple, including its history, highlights, and access information.
What is Shoheiji Temple?
Shoheiji Temple is a Jodo sect temple officially known as Tenporinzan Nisonin Shoheiji. The current Shoheiji Temple was formed through the merger of two previously adjacent temples, Hoshinin and Kozoji.
Basic Information
- Sect: Jodo-shu (Pure Land Buddhism)
- Mountain Name: Tenborinzan
- Temple Name: Nison-in
- Principal Image: Amida Buddha
- Location: 5-chome, Kotsubo, Zushi City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Head Temple: Branch temple of Kamakura Komyoji Temple
The Kotsubo area is located on the border of Zushi City and Kamakura City, and is an area with a seaside landscape including Kotsubo Fishing Port and Kotsubo Beach. It has flourished as a fishing town since ancient times, and in the Kamakura period, it was a historically significant area connected to Kamakura via the Kotsubo Road (Kotsubo Pass).
History of Kotsubo-ji Temple
Origins of Hoshin-in and Kozo-ji Temples
To understand the history of Kotsubo-ji Temple, it is necessary to know about the two temples before their merger.
Hoshin-in was a branch temple of Kamakura Komyoji Temple, founded in Bunmei 5 (1473). Founded in the mid-Muromachi period, this temple, with a history of over 430 years, served as the center of faith in the Kotsubo district.
Meanwhile, Kōzōji is believed to have been founded even earlier than Hōshin-in. While its exact founding date is unknown, it was located adjacent to Hōshin-in and, like Hōshin-in, was a Jōdo sect temple that attracted the faith of the local people.
Fire and Merger in the Meiji Era
The catalyst for the birth of Kotsubo-ji was a major fire that occurred in Meiji 40 (1907). The fire, which started at Hōshin-in, spread rapidly, and the adjacent Kōzōji was also destroyed. This fire caused significant damage, with the main halls and many other buildings of both temples being lost.
The following year, Meiji 41 (1908), efforts toward reconstruction began. A building from a sub-temple of Engaku-ji in Kamakura was acquired and relocated to the site of Kōzōji, becoming the main hall. This relocated building forms the foundation of the current Kotsubo-ji main hall.
Then, in 1909 (Meiji 42), Gyōnen Shōnin, the head priest of both temples, formally merged the burnt-down Hōshin-in and Kōzō-ji temples, and rebuilt and founded them as Kotsubo-ji. Inheriting the history and traditions of the two temples, Kotsubo-ji began a new chapter in its history.
Connection with Kotsubo School
Kotsubo-ji (formerly Kōzō-ji) has also contributed to local education. Records show that in 1898 (Meiji 31), Kotsubo School (Sagiura Gakusha) was used at the temple. This indicates that the temple also played a role as a local educational center.
Buddhist Statues and Cultural Assets of Kotsubo-ji
Kotsubo-ji houses several Buddhist statues of high historical and artistic value.
Standing Amida Buddha Statue (attributed to Jocho)
The principal image, the standing Amida Buddha statue, is attributed to the Heian period Buddhist sculptor Jocho. Jocho was a leading Japanese Buddhist sculptor who was active in the mid-Heian period and is known for creating the seated Amida Buddha statue (National Treasure) in Byodo-in Phoenix Hall.
It is said to exhibit the elegant and serene expression, well-proportioned physique, and flowing drapery characteristic of Jocho’s style, and is carefully preserved as a masterpiece of Pure Land Buddhist art. This statue, which survived the fire, can be said to be the most important cultural asset of Kotsubo-ji Temple.
Standing Enmei Jizo Bodhisattva Statue (attributed to Unkei)
The Enmei Jizo Bodhisattva Statue is attributed to the Kamakura period Buddhist sculptor Unkei. Unkei was a leading Buddhist sculptor of the Kei school, known for creating the Kongo Rikishi statues at the South Gate of Todai-ji Temple.
Jizo Bodhisattva has been widely worshipped as a Buddha who relieves the suffering of the people and especially protects children and travelers. Enmei Jizo Bodhisattva is a beloved figure in the community, worshipped for longevity and good health.
Gyōran Kannon (Fish Basket Kannon)
Kotsubo-ji Temple also houses a rare Gyōran Kannon. Gyōran Kannon is a manifestation of Kannon Bodhisattva, depicted holding a sea bream in its right hand, and its worship originates from Chinese legend.
As a Buddhist statue befitting the fishing town of Kotsubo, it has attracted the faith of fishermen praying for safety at sea and abundant catches. It is a distinctive Buddhist statue unique to a temple by the sea.
Highlights of Kotsubo-ji Temple
Main Hall and Temple Grounds
The main hall, relocated from Engaku-ji Temple, is a valuable building that preserves the architectural style of Zen Buddhism from the Kamakura period. Its simple yet dignified appearance provides visitors with a sense of tranquility and peace.
The temple grounds are located in the residential area of Kotsubo and, though small, are meticulously maintained. Its proximity to the sea allows visitors to feel the sea breeze while praying, a unique feature of Kotsubo-ji Temple.
Historical Environment of Kotsubo
The area around Kotsubo-ji Temple is dotted with historical sites.
Kotsubo Road (Kotsubo Pass) is an ancient road that connected Kamakura and Kotsubo during the Kamakura period, and parts of it still remain today. This road is steeped in history related to the Kamakura Shogunate, including legends about Minamoto no Yoritomo’s concubine, Kame-no-mae, and records of Minamoto no Yoriie’s visit to Kotsubo.
Kotsubo Fishing Port still functions as a vibrant fishing port, where fresh seafood is landed. Kotsubo Beach is a quiet cove, a beautiful spot with views of Enoshima Island and Mount Fuji.
Access Information
Access by Public Transportation
Kotsubo Temple can be accessed in the following ways:
JR Yokosuka Line/Shonan Shinjuku Line
- Get off at “Zushi Station,” then take a bus or walk.
- By bus: Take the Keikyu Bus “bound for Kamakura Station via Kotsubo,” get off at the “Kotsubo” bus stop, and walk for about 5 minutes.
- By foot: Approximately 30 minutes (approximately 2.5 km)
Keikyu Zushi Line
- Get off at “Zushi-Hayama Station,” then take a bus or walk.
- Access method is the same as above.
JR Yokosuka Line
- Also accessible from “Kamakura Station.”
- Take the Keikyu Bus “bound for Zushi Station via Kotsubo,” and get off at the “Kotsubo” bus stop.
The nearest station is Enoden “Wadazuka Station,” but it’s about 2.4 km away, a bit of a walk (approximately 29 minutes).
Access by Car
Yokohama-Yokosuka Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Zushi IC.”
The Kotsubo area has some narrow roads, so caution is required when driving. We recommend checking parking information in advance.
Nearby Parking Information
While there is no large-scale parking lot specifically for Kotsubo-ji Temple, there are several coin-operated parking lots around Kotsubo Fishing Port. These can get crowded on weekends, so please consider using public transportation.
Recommended Spots Around Kotsubo-ji Temple
Kotsubo Fishing Port and Seafood Cuisine
There are many restaurants serving fresh seafood around Kotsubo Fishing Port. In particular, seafood restaurants such as “Rinka” offer dishes made with fish caught locally.
Kotsubo Coast
Kotsubo Coast, a quiet cove, is an ideal spot for a stroll. It is known as a scenic spot where you can see Enoshima Island and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji.
Komyoji Temple
Komyoji Temple in Kamakura is the head temple of Kotsubo-ji Temple. As a major head temple of the Jodo sect, it is a renowned temple with vast grounds and a magnificent main hall. Visiting it in conjunction with your visit to Kotsubo-ji Temple is highly recommended.
Jizo Statues of Kotsubo Road
Along Kotsubo Road, ancient Jizo statues are enshrined, allowing visitors to feel the history of faith dating back to the Kamakura period.
Points to Note When Visiting
Visiting Hours
Kotsubo Temple is generally open for daytime visits, but there may be times when it is closed due to temple events. If you wish to visit without a reservation, it is recommended to contact the temple in advance.
Admission Fee
There is no admission fee for regular visits, but a fee may be charged for special viewings.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds, but permission is required beforehand for photographing the interior of the main hall or Buddha statues. Please be mindful of proper etiquette when taking photographs.
Clothing and Belongings
Please dress appropriately for visiting a temple. Due to its location near the sea, it can be windy on some days. It is recommended to prepare clothing suitable for the season and comfortable walking shoes.
Kotsubo Temple and Perpetual Memorial Services/Tree Burial
In recent years, Kotsubo Temple has also offered perpetual memorial services and tree burials. This location, with its tranquil ocean views, is gaining attention as a place to remember loved ones.
Features of Perpetual Memorial Services
There are two options: individual graves where remains are kept separately for a set period, and communal graves where remains are buried together with those of others. You can choose according to your budget and preferences. This is a suitable memorial service method for those without successors or those who do not wish to burden their descendants.
Visit Reservations
If you are interested in perpetual memorial services or cemeteries, you can make a visit reservation in advance. You can contact the temple directly or use a specialized intermediary service.
History and Culture of the Kotsubo Area
Connection to the Kamakura Period
Kotsubo was an important port town from the Kamakura period. It flourished as a base for maritime traffic to Kamakura and as a fishing base. Records show that Minamoto no Yoritomo and Minamoto no Yoriie also visited Kotsubo, indicating a deep connection with the Kamakura Shogunate.
This area, which was also the stage for the Battle of Kotsubo, is known as a historically significant place.
A Tradition as a Fishing Town
Even today, Kotsubo Fishing Port continues to practice fixed-net fishing and whitebait fishing, preserving the town’s tradition as a fishing community. Fresh seafood supports the local food culture and is a major attraction for many tourists.
Summary
Kotsubo-ji Temple is a Jodo sect temple that overcame the difficulties of a fire during the Meiji era, integrating the histories of two other temples. It houses valuable Buddhist statues, including a standing Amida Buddha statue attributed to Jocho, a standing Enmei Jizo Bodhisattva statue attributed to Unkei, and a Gyōran Kannon (fish basket Kannon), fitting for a fishing town.
Nestled within the historic fishing town of Kotsubo, Kotsubo-ji Temple offers a glimpse into its history dating back to the Kamakura period. The surrounding area boasts numerous attractions, including Kotsubo Fishing Port, Kotsubo Beach, and Kotsubo Road.
When visiting Zushi or Kamakura, be sure to also visit Kotsubo-ji Temple. In its tranquil grounds, you can reflect on history and enjoy a peaceful time while breathing in the scent of the sea.
Kotsubo-ji Temple, where the faith of the Jodo sect and the history of Kotsubo intersect, will continue to welcome many visitors, protected by the local people.
