Complete Guide to Shomyoji Temple (Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture) | History, Characteristics, Access, and Visiting Information for the Honmon Butsuryu Sect
Located in Nishi-Aoki, Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture, Shomyoji Temple is a historic temple belonging to the Honmon Butsuryu sect. Since the Taisho era, it has been a center of local faith, cherished by many. This article comprehensively introduces information useful for those considering visiting or seeking advice at Shomyoji Temple, including its history, sectarian characteristics, access methods, information on graves and perpetual memorial services, and annual events.
Basic Information about Shomyoji Temple
Location and Access
Address: 3-6-32 Nishi-Aoki, Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture 332-0035
Phone Number: 048-253-2009
FAX: 048-251-4633
Nearest Station: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the East Exit of Nishikawaguchi Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line
Shomyoji Temple is located behind the Kawaguchi Police Station, making it very convenient to access from Nishikawaguchi Station. It’s within walking distance of the station, making it ideal for those traveling by train. It’s also accessible from Kawaguchi Station and Warabi Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, approximately 0.8 km from Kawaguchi Station.
Sect and Mountain Name
Sect: Honmon Butsuryu-shu
Mountain Name: Chokozan
Temple Rank: Main Temple Rank (Has 6 branch temples in Saitama Prefecture)
Affiliation: Honmon Butsuryu-shu 6th Branch Office, Saitama Missionary District
Current Chief Priest
Chief Priest (In Charge): Ueda Nichiji
The chief priest is known for his friendly and approachable demeanor, and he provides courteous assistance with consultations and questions regarding Buddhist rituals. He also values an open approach to the community in the management of the temple.
History and Origins of Shomyoji Temple
Circumstances of Founding
The history of Shomyoji Temple dates back to the Taisho era. The origins of this temple lie in the dispatch of Reverend Hayami Seiji (later Reverend Nichigyoku) in 1923 (Taisho 12) by Reverend Yu Nichikan (Tokyo Josenji Temple), a senior disciple of Reverend Yu Nichisu, the 4th head of the Honmon Butsuryu sect, to Saitama Prefecture for missionary work.
Initially established as the “Saitama Main Branch,” it began its activities as a base for missionary work of the Honmon Butsuryu sect in the region. Later, as the number of followers increased, it took on the form of a temple and became the present-day Shomyoji Temple.
As a central temple of the Honmon Butsuryu sect in Saitama Prefecture
Since its founding, Shomyoji Temple has played a central role in the Honmon Butsuryu sect in Saitama Prefecture. Currently, as a head temple with six branch temples in Saitama Prefecture, it supports local religious activities.
The temple’s founding year, 1923 (Taisho 12), coincides with the Great Kanto Earthquake, and it is believed that the temple played a significant role as a spiritual haven for people during this turbulent period. For over 100 years since then, it has walked hand-in-hand with the local community in Nishi-Aoki, Kawaguchi City.
About Honmon Butsuryu-shu
Characteristics of the Sect
Honmon Butsuryu-shu is a Buddhist sect based on the teachings of Nichiren Shonin. The name “Butsuryu” means “the Buddha stands,” emphasizing the practice of the Buddha’s teachings in a way that is relevant to modern life.
The following are some of the characteristics of Honmon Butsuryu-shu:
- Practice of Faith in Daily Life: Emphasis is placed on practicing the Buddha’s teachings not only through special ascetic practices, but also in daily life.
- Emphasis on the Oko (Buddhist Gathering): The sect values the “Oko,” a gathering where believers come together to learn the teachings and deepen their faith.
- Modern Missionary Activities: The sect incorporates modern missionary methods and utilizes digital tools such as the Butsuryu app.
- International Expansion: The sect has missionary bases overseas and offers an English website.
Honmon Butsuryu Sect Headquarters and Related Facilities
Sect Headquarters: Headquartered in Kyoto, it oversees temples nationwide.
Kyoto Butsuryu Museum: Located in Kyoto, it provides a facility for learning about the sect’s history and teachings.
Shomyoji Temple is a member of this Honmon Butsuryu Sect network and serves as its activity base in Saitama Prefecture.
Shomyoji Temple Grounds and Facilities
Barrier-Free Accessibility
One of the key features of Shomyoji Temple is its barrier-free design. It is designed to be easily accessible for the elderly and those using wheelchairs, allowing visitors to worship with peace of mind.
The temple grounds are well-maintained, providing a clean and tranquil atmosphere for worship. Despite being located in an urban area, the temple maintains a tranquil environment, providing a space where one can calmly contemplate the Buddha.
Main Hall and Other Halls
Daily services and memorial services are held in the main hall. Magnificent Buddha statues based on the teachings of the Honmon Butsuryu sect are enshrined here, and believers visit regularly to pay their respects.
About Graves, Perpetual Memorial Services, and Tree Burials
Information on the Cemetery at Shomyoji Temple
In addition to conventional cemeteries, Shomyoji Temple offers perpetual memorial graves and tree burials to meet modern needs. Despite being located in the urban area of Kawaguchi City, it is chosen as a place where one can honor their ancestors in a peaceful environment.
Features of Perpetual Memorial Services
Perpetual memorial services are a system where the temple takes responsibility for continuing memorial services in perpetuity for those who have no successors to their graves or who do not wish to burden their descendants. Shomyoji Temple offers these modern forms of memorial services to meet contemporary needs.
Benefits of Perpetual Memorial Services:
- Peace of mind even without a successor
- No maintenance hassle
- Relatively lower costs
- Permanent management by the temple
About Tree Burial
Tree burial, popular among nature-oriented individuals, is another option. This nature-based memorial service, where one rests beneath trees and flowers, is suitable for those who prioritize environmental considerations.
Costs and Visit Reservations
Individual consultations are necessary regarding the costs of graves and perpetual memorial services. Shomyoji Temple accepts visits, allowing you to decide after actually seeing the temple grounds.
Visit Reservations: We recommend making a reservation in advance by phone (048-253-2009). The head priest and staff will provide detailed explanations.
Annual Events and Memorial Services
Regular Events
As a temple of the Honmon Butsuryu sect, Shomyoji Temple holds various events throughout the year.
Okō (御講): A regularly held gathering of believers to learn the teachings and deepen their faith together.
Oeshiki (御御式): An important event commemorating the anniversary of Nichiren Shonin’s death.
Obon Memorial Service: An important summer event to honor ancestors.
Year-End and New Year Events: Significant events such as the ringing of the temple bell on New Year’s Eve and prayers for the New Year are held.
Individual Memorial Services
Funeral/Memorial Service: A funeral service conducted according to the customs of the Honmon Butsuryu-shu sect.
Buddhist Memorial Service: Memorial services to remember the deceased, such as annual memorial services, can be held.
Memorial Service for Stillborn Children: Memorial services for stillborn children are also accepted.
Prayers and Supplications: Prayers are offered to fulfill various wishes.
Visiting and Consulting at Shomyoji Temple
Etiquette for Visiting
In the Honmon Butsuryu sect, we value daily visits to the temple. Even without knowing special etiquette, the most important thing is to visit with sincerity.
Basic Visit Procedure:
- Bow at the temple gate
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin
- Visit the main hall and pray
- Quietly join your hands in prayer and sincerely recite the mantra
- Bow again upon leaving
Acceptance of Various Consultations
Shomyoji Temple accepts various consultations regarding Buddhist rituals. The head priest is known for his friendly and approachable demeanor, so even first-time visitors can feel at ease asking questions.
Topics You Can Consult:
- Funeral and memorial services
- Graves and perpetual memorial services
- General questions about Buddhist rituals
- Life advice
- Questions about faith
How to Consult: We recommend making a reservation by phone (048-253-2009) before visiting the temple.
Digital Utilization of Honmon Butsuryu Sect
Butsuryu App
Honmon Butsuryu Sect offers the “Butsuryu App” to suit modern lifestyles. Through this app, you can learn about the teachings and connect with temples.
Online Information Dissemination
Honmon Butsuryu Sect also operates an official website and an English site, disseminating information both domestically and internationally. We also have a wealth of blogs about temple visits, allowing you to learn about the characteristics and events of each temple.
Temple Visits Around Kawaguchi City
Temple Culture of Kawaguchi City
Kawaguchi City is home to many temples, including Shomyoji Temple. The area around Nishikawaguchi Station is easily accessible by public transport and ideal for temple pilgrimages.
Pilgrimage Starting from Shomyoji Temple
Shomyoji Temple is within walking distance of Nishikawaguchi Station, making it an excellent starting point for a temple tour in Kawaguchi City. Using the Kawaguchi Police Station as a landmark, even first-time visitors can easily find their way.
Connection to the Community
Presence in Nishi-Aoki, Kawaguchi City
Since its founding in 1923 (Taisho 12), Shomyoji Temple has been deeply involved with the Nishi-Aoki community in Kawaguchi City. Through its participation in local events such as weddings, funerals, and other ceremonies, it serves as a spiritual pillar for the community.
As an Open Temple
As an “open temple,” a requirement for modern temples, Shomyoji Temple welcomes not only its parishioners but also a wide range of local residents. Its barrier-free access and courteous service are manifestations of this attitude.
Detailed Access Information to Shomyoji Temple
Access by Train
From Nishikawaguchi Station:
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the East Exit of Nishikawaguchi Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line
- Head towards Kawaguchi Police Station after exiting the station
- Located behind the police station
From Kawaguchi Station:
- Approximately 0.8 km from Kawaguchi Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line
- Accessible by bus or on foot
From Warabi Station:
- Accessible from Warabi Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line
Access by Car
Please set your destination to 3-6-32 Nishi-Aoki, Kawaguchi City. Please inquire with the temple in advance regarding parking availability.
Landmarks in the Area
Kawaguchi Police Station is the easiest landmark to find. Shomyoji Temple is located behind the police station.
Records and Reputation of Shomyoji Temple
User Feedback
Visitors to Shomyoji Temple have provided the following feedback:
- Barrier-Free Access: Easy access for wheelchair users and the elderly
- Personality of the Chief Priest: Friendly and approachable
- Good Management: The temple grounds are kept clean
- Easy Access: Close to the station and easily accessible
Characteristics of the Temple
As a head temple with six branch temples in Saitama Prefecture, it holds an important position within the Honmon Butsuryu sect. It is not merely a local temple, but plays a central role in missionary activities throughout Saitama Prefecture.
Summary: The Charms of Shomyoji Temple
Shomyoji Temple (Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture) is a temple with the following characteristics:
- Historical Temple: Founded in 1923 (Taisho 12), boasting a 100-year history.
- Center Temple of the Honmon Butsuryu Sect: An important temple of head temple status in Saitama Prefecture.
- Easy Access: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Nishikawaguchi Station.
- Barrier-Free Access: An environment easily accessible to everyone.
- Friendly Abbot: A welcoming atmosphere for consultations.
- Meeting Modern Needs: Offers perpetual memorial services and tree burials.
- Temple Open to the Community: Welcomes non-believers as well.
For those considering graves or perpetual memorial services, those interested in the teachings of the Honmon Butsuryu Sect, or those who wish to encounter the teachings of Buddha in various aspects of life, Shomyoji Temple will be a reassuring presence.
Located in the urban area of Nishi-Aoki, Kawaguchi City, Shomyoji Temple offers a quiet and peaceful environment where you can connect with, learn from, and pray to the Buddha. Why not pay a visit?
Inquiries: 048-253-2009 (Shomyoji Temple)
Even first-time visitors will be greeted kindly by the head priest, so please feel free to contact us.
