Honkokuji Temple (Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Access, and Columbarium Information
Located in Hachiman, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, Honkokuji Temple is a Nichiren Buddhist temple that attracts the faith of the local community. Its official name is Monju-zan Honkokuji, and it is known for its distinctive 8-meter-tall statue of Nichiren Shonin. This article provides a detailed overview of Honkokuji Temple, including its history, features, access methods, cemetery and columbarium information, and a guide to nearby cemeteries.
Basic Information about Honkokuji Temple
Temple Overview
Official Name: Monjusan Honkokuji
Sect: Nichiren Buddhism
Address: 6-13-26 Hachiman, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture
Postal Code: 〒980-0871
Phone Number: 022-234-0616
FAX: 022-234-3671
Email Address: info@honkokuji.jp
Honkokuji Temple is located in the western part of Sendai City, boasting a superb location with a panoramic view of the city from a hilltop. Based on the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism, it provides religious services such as memorial services, funerals, and memorial services to local parishioners and followers.
What is Nichiren Buddhism?
Nichiren Buddhism is a Buddhist sect founded by Nichiren Shonin, a monk of the Kamakura period. This faith centers on chanting the mantra “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo” and considers the Lotus Sutra to be the highest scripture. Honkokuji Temple also adheres to this teaching, continuing to provide religious guidance to its parishioners and contribute to the local community.
History and Characteristics of Honkokuji Temple
Founding and History
Honkokuji Temple is a relatively new temple, founded before World War II. While there are various theories regarding its exact founding date, it is believed to have been established in Sendai during the Showa period. Since then, it has developed as a center for Nichiren Buddhist followers in the region.
In 2002, to commemorate the 750th anniversary of the founding of the Nichiren sect, a Jōroku (approximately 8-meter) statue of Nichiren Shonin was erected on the temple grounds. This statue, a symbol of Honkokuji Temple, exudes a presence that can be seen from afar, attracting many worshippers and tourists.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Statue of Nichiren Shonin: The Jōroku statue, approximately 8 meters tall, is the most distinctive feature of Honkokuji Temple. This statue, erected to commemorate the 750th anniversary of the founding of the Nichiren sect, is a symbol of the teachings of Nichiren Shonin and is cherished not only by followers but also by general visitors.
View: Located on a hill in western Sendai, the temple grounds offer a panoramic view of the city. On particularly clear days, the view extends all the way to the Pacific Ocean, providing visitors with a sense of peace and tranquility.
Main Hall: The main hall, which houses the mandala—the principal object of worship for the Nichiren sect—is where daily services and religious ceremonies are held. It maintains a solemn atmosphere as the center of faith for parishioners.
Access and Transportation Information
Access by Train
The JR Senzan Line is the most convenient way to reach Honkoku-ji Temple.
Nearest Station: JR Senzan Line “Kunimi Station”
Distance from Station: Approximately 0.5km (approximately 6-8 minutes on foot)
Other Nearest Stations:
- JR Senzan Line “Kuzuoka Station”
- JR Senzan Line “Tohoku Fukushi University Station”
From Kunimi Station to Honkokuji Temple, walk towards Hachiman. It is relatively close to the station and easily accessible.
Access by Car
Approximately 15-20 minutes by car from central Sendai. Approximately 20 minutes from the Tohoku Expressway Sendai-Miyagi IC. Access from the area around Sendai Station is via National Route 48.
Parking: There is parking space on the temple grounds, but it can get crowded during memorial services and funerals. It is recommended to inquire with the temple in advance.
Access by Bus
If using Sendai City Buses, take a bus bound for Hachiman and walk from the nearest bus stop. For detailed route information, please refer to the Sendai City Transportation Bureau website or contact Honkokuji Temple directly.
Funeral and Memorial Service Services at Honkokuji Temple
Honkokuji Temple as a Funeral Facility
Honkokuji Temple can be used as a temple funeral hall for funerals and memorial services. However, since there is no crematorium on-site, it is necessary to travel to a nearby crematorium after the funeral.
Main Crematoriums:
- Kuzuoka Crematorium (Sendai City Municipal)
- Other crematoriums in Sendai City
The temple grounds are barrier-free, ensuring a safe and accessible environment for elderly attendees and wheelchair users.
Memorial Service Services Offered
Honkokuji Temple offers the following various memorial service services:
- Funeral and Memorial Service: A solemn funeral service based on the customs of the Nichiren sect.
- Buddhist Memorial Services: Various memorial services such as the seventh day, forty-ninth day, first anniversary, and third anniversary.
- Obon Memorial Service: Obon service for ancestor worship.
- Higan Memorial Service: Spring and autumn Higan memorial services.
- Perpetual Memorial Service: Memorial service for those without successors.
For detailed information on costs and procedures, please contact Honkokuji Temple directly.
Visiting the Cemetery via Live Camera
Honkokuji Temple offers a cemetery visit service using live cameras for those who live far away or are unable to visit in person for various reasons. This service, which allows you to check the temple grounds via the internet, is attracting attention as an advanced initiative that meets modern needs.
Information on Honkokuji Temple’s Cemetery and Columbarium
About the Temple Cemetery
Honkokuji Temple has a temple cemetery, providing burial plots for parishioners and believers. Temple cemeteries are managed and operated by temples, and generally, being a follower of the Nichiren sect is a requirement for use.
Characteristics of Temple Cemeteries:
- Peace of mind due to permanent management by the temple
- Ability to perform memorial services and rites at the same temple
- Ability to honor ancestors in a religious environment
- Well-maintained cemeteries
Columbarium Services
Honkokuji Temple may also offer columbarium services. Columbariums are facilities for housing cremated remains and have become increasingly popular in recent years as a less expensive option than building a tombstone.
If you wish to use the columbarium, please contact Honkokuji Temple directly regarding availability, usage conditions, and costs.
Procedures for Using the Cemetery
To use the cemetery at Honkokuji Temple, the following procedures are required.
- Consultation with the Temple: First, inquire by phone or email.
- On-site Visit: Actually visit the cemetery and check the environment.
- Becoming a Temple Member: Becoming a temple member of the Nichiren sect may be a requirement.
- Contract Procedures: Conclude a cemetery usage contract.
- Gravestone Construction: Have a gravestone constructed by a partner stonemason or a stonemason of your choice.
- Eye-Opening Ceremony: After the gravestone is completed, an eye-opening ceremony will be held.
For detailed procedures and costs, please contact Honkokuji Temple directly.
Cemeteries and Burial Grounds near Honkokuji Temple
In addition to Honkokuji Temple, there are many other cemeteries and burial grounds in Aoba Ward, Sendai City and the surrounding area. Here, we introduce some of the major cemeteries that we can introduce near Honkokuji Temple.
Memorial Herb Garden Hills Sendai
Memorial Herb Garden Hills Sendai is a park cemetery located in a rich natural environment. Featuring a beautiful landscape based on the concept of a herb garden, this cemetery is gaining popularity as a bright and open space that completely redefines the image of traditional cemeteries.
Features:
- Enjoy seasonal flowers as a gardening cemetery
- Open to all religions and denominations
- Diverse burial styles including perpetual care graves and tree burials
- Barrier-free design for the elderly
- Complete memorial service facilities
Sendai Kuzuoka Tree Burial Forest Garden
Sendai Kuzuoka Tree Burial Forest Garden is a cemetery specializing in tree burials, based on the concept of returning to nature. This new style of burial, where remains are buried under trees without the erection of tombstones, is attracting attention for its environmental considerations and cost advantages.
Features:
- Burial in a lush forest
- No tombstone required, reducing costs
- Perpetual memorial service included, no need for a successor
- Open to all religions and denominations
- Choice of individual plots or communal burial
Sendai Kuzuoka Tree Burial is especially recommended for those who are not attached to traditional cemeteries or who prefer a nature-oriented approach.
Kuzuoka Cemetery
Kuzuoka Cemetery is a public cemetery operated by Sendai City, located in Aoba Ward. Its appeal lies in the peace of mind that comes with a public cemetery and its relatively reasonable costs.
Features:
- Public cemetery operated by Sendai City
- Open to all religions and denominations
- Diverse plots including general burial plots and lawn burial plots
- Lower usage fees than private cemeteries
- Permanently managed by the city
Public cemeteries are popular, and applications may be subject to a lottery. There are conditions such as being a resident of Sendai City, so please contact the relevant department of Sendai City for details.
Leaf Park Yukari
Leaf Park Yukari is a privately owned cemetery with a modern design and comprehensive facilities. As an urban cemetery, it boasts high convenience and is highly regarded for its ability to meet diverse needs.
Features:
- Modernly designed cemetery
- Diverse options including traditional burial plots, perpetual memorial graves, and columbariums
- Comprehensive facilities including memorial service facilities and rest areas
- Open to all religions and denominations
- Excellent access
Ryuhōji Temple (Special Head Temple)
Ryūhōji Temple is a prestigious temple of the Sōtō Zen sect, designated as a special head temple. It is a historic temple cemetery, suitable for those who desire traditional memorial services.
Features:
- A special head temple of the Soto Zen sect
- A temple with a long history and prestige
- Permanent management as a temple cemetery
- Memorial services can be held on the temple grounds
- Requires becoming a Soto Zen parishioner
List of Nichiren Buddhist Temples in Aoba Ward, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture
Besides Honkoku-ji Temple, there are several other Nichiren Buddhist temples in Aoba Ward, Sendai City. For those seeking temples of the same sect, we introduce some of the major temples.
Nichiren Buddhist Temples in the Sakunami Area
There are also Nichiren Buddhist temples in Setohara, Sakunami, Aoba Ward, Sendai City. The Sakunami area, known for Sakunami Onsen (hot springs), is a nature-rich area away from the city center of Sendai, offering a peaceful environment for religious practice.
Other Temples in Aoba Ward
Aoba Ward is a vast area encompassing the central part of Sendai City, with many temples scattered throughout. Besides Nichiren Buddhism, there are temples of various other sects, including Soto Zen, Jodo Buddhism, and Shingon Buddhism.
If you are looking for a temple cemetery without being particular about sect, we recommend comparing several temples.
Guide to Buddhist Altar and Buddhist Goods Stores near Honkokuji Temple
If you need to purchase or repair a Buddhist altar or Buddhist goods, the following stores are located near Honkokuji Temple.
Heian Supply
A specialty store for Buddhist altars and Buddhist goods with a store in Sendai City. They feature a wide selection, from traditional to modern Buddhist altars.
Butsudan no Samasa
A long-established Buddhist altar store that has earned the trust of the community for many years. They also offer repair and cleaning services by skilled craftsmen.
Gallery Memoria Sendai Hirose-dori Store
Located in the heart of Sendai City, its convenient location is a major draw. They stock not only Buddhist altars, but also memorial tablets, Buddhist goods, incense, and other items necessary for memorial services.
Butsudan Gallery Chuo Seigetsuki
A modern showroom format where you can take your time to choose while actually viewing the Buddhist altars. Our knowledgeable staff will provide suggestions tailored to your budget and living environment.
Butsudan Gallery Izumi Seigetsuki
This is a Buddhist altar specialty store located in Izumi Ward. We have ample parking, making it easily accessible by car. We also offer comprehensive delivery and installation services for Buddhist altars.
Frequently Asked Questions about Graves
Can I consult about rebuilding, repairing, or renovating gravestones?
Yes, Honkokuji Temple accepts consultations regarding the rebuilding, repairing, and renovating of gravestones. We can handle various needs, including the restoration of gravestones damaged by years of weathering, re-engraving of lettering, and maintenance of cemetery plots.
We can introduce you to affiliated stonemasons, or you can choose a stonemason yourself. We recommend that you first consult with Honkokuji Temple to have your current situation assessed.
Can I consult about closing a grave or moving a grave?
You can also consult with Honkokuji Temple about closing a grave (reburial) or moving a grave. In recent years, more and more people are considering closing their family graves due to reasons such as living far away and difficulty visiting the graves, or lacking successors.
The following procedures are necessary for closing a family grave:
- Application for permission to rebury the remains: Apply to the local government where the current grave is located.
- Removal of remains: Hire a stonemason to dismantle the tombstone and remove the remains.
- Closing ceremony: Perform a memorial service to remove the spirit from the grave.
- Return of the grave plot: Return the right to use the grave plot and return the plot to its original state.
- Return of remains to a new burial site: Perpetual memorial grave, columbarium, scattering of ashes, etc.
These procedures require specialized knowledge, so it is recommended to proceed while consulting with Honkokuji Temple or a specialist.
Can I use a grave plot without becoming a temple parishioner?
In the case of temple cemeteries, becoming a parishioner is often a condition. In the case of Honkokuji Temple, you may be required to support the temple as a Nichiren Buddhist parishioner.
Becoming a temple parishioner requires paying an annual maintenance fee (parishioner fee), but in return, you receive perpetual management and memorial services from the temple.
If you prefer a cemetery that is open to all religions and denominations, we recommend considering public or private cemeteries.
What is perpetual memorial service?
Perpetual memorial service is a system where the temple or cemetery manages and performs memorial services for the remains indefinitely. This is a suitable option for those without successors or those who do not want to burden their descendants with grave maintenance.
Honkokuji Temple may also offer perpetual memorial services; please inquire directly for details.
Points and advice for finding a grave
Consider location
Since a grave is a place to visit regularly, good accessibility is an important point. Temple cemeteries like Honkokuji Temple, which are close to train stations, are conveniently accessible by public transportation. On the other hand, if car access is important, check the availability and size of parking.
Confirmation of Religion/Sect
When using a temple cemetery, be sure to check the religious/sectual requirements. Honkokuji Temple is a Nichiren Buddhist temple, so becoming a parishioner requires becoming a Nichiren Buddhist follower.
If you have no particular religious preference or belong to a different sect, you should choose a public or private cemetery that accepts all religions/sects.
Understanding the Breakdown of Costs
The costs associated with a grave are divided into the following categories:
- Perpetual Use Fee: The cost of acquiring the right to use the cemetery plot
- Gravestone Cost: The cost of the gravestone itself and construction
- Management Fee: Annual cemetery maintenance costs
- Memorial Service Fee: Costs for memorial services such as the eye-opening ceremony
It is important to understand the total cost of these expenses and confirm that it fits within your budget.
Comparing Multiple Cemeteries
We recommend visiting and comparing multiple cemeteries, not just one. Visiting the actual site allows you to experience the atmosphere, maintenance, and surrounding environment firsthand.
Please consider the cemeteries and temples introduced in this article, including Honkokuji Temple, as candidates to find the best place for yourself and your family.
Thinking about Future Management
Graves are passed down through generations. It is important to consider from a long-term perspective who will manage them in the future, and what to do if there are no successors.
If you are concerned about succession issues, considering options with less maintenance burden, such as perpetual memorial graves or tree burials, is one option.
Kamakura Shinsho Group Sites
As an information service to support your search for a grave, Kamakura Shinsho operates portal sites such as “Ii Ohaka” (Good Graves). These sites allow you to search for cemeteries and burial grounds nationwide, and you can also request brochures and make viewing reservations.
Main Services:
- Japan’s largest cemetery portal site
- Lists information on cemeteries and burial grounds nationwide
- Searches for cemeteries that meet your needs
- Consultation service by staff with specialized knowledge
- Introduction to affiliated stonemasons
- Support for closing graves and relocating graves
By using these information services, you can efficiently proceed with your search for a grave.
Search for graves by region
Search for cemeteries by city/town/village in Miyagi Prefecture
Those looking for a grave in Miyagi Prefecture can search by the following cities/town/village.
- Sendai City: Aoba Ward, Miyagino Ward, Wakabayashi Ward, Taihaku Ward, Izumi Ward
- Ishinomaki City
- Shiogama City
- Kesennuma City
- Natori City
- Tagajo City
- Iwanuma City
- Tomiya City
- Other cities and towns in Miyagi Prefecture
Sendai City’s Aoba Ward is an area that includes the central part of the prefectural capital and has a high concentration of cemeteries and temples. There are diverse options, from historical temples like Honkokuji to privately owned cemeteries with the latest facilities.
Searching for Temples in Miyagi Prefecture
If you wish to use a temple cemetery, you can also search for temples in each city and town. Miyagi Prefecture has temples of various denominations, including Nichiren Buddhism, Soto Zen Buddhism, Jodo Buddhism, and Shingon Buddhism.
By finding a temple that suits your own denomination, you can lead a deeper life of faith.
Summary
Honkokuji Temple is a Nichiren Buddhist temple located in Hachiman, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture. Its symbolic feature is a statue of Nichiren Shonin, approximately 8 meters tall, and the temple grounds are situated on a hill overlooking Sendai city.
With its convenient access (approximately 6-8 minutes on foot from Kunimi Station on the JR Senzan Line), barrier-free facilities, and modern services utilizing live cameras, it is a temple that blends tradition and innovation, attracting the faith of the local community.
It offers various religious services, including the use of temple cemeteries and columbariums, and the execution of funerals and memorial services, making it a suitable temple for those who wish to live a life of faith as a Nichiren Buddhist parishioner.
Finding a burial place is one of the most important decisions in life. We recommend visiting Honkokuji Temple and other surrounding cemeteries and temples to find the best place for yourself and your family. For detailed information and to schedule a visit, we recommend contacting Honkokuji Temple directly.
Contact Information:
Honkokuji Temple (Nichiren Sect)
Phone: 022-234-0616
Email: info@honkokuji.jp
Address: 6-13-26 Hachiman, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture
We hope that Honkokuji Temple will become a place of spiritual solace for everyone and a place that can be a long-lasting companion for ancestor worship.
