Complete Guide to Shofuku-ji Temples | History, Benefits, and Access Information for Shofuku-ji Temples Nationwide
Shofuku-ji is the name of several temples located throughout Japan. Each has its own unique history and characteristics, and has played an important role as a center of local faith and culture. This article provides a detailed explanation of the historical background, cultural assets, benefits, and access methods for particularly famous Shofuku-ji temples in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, and Ageo City, Saitama Prefecture.
Shofuku-ji Temple in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture | Birthplace of the National and Classical Japanese School
The Boshin War and its Role as a Military Hospital
Shofuku-ji Temple in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, played an important role during the turbulent period from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji era. During the Boshin War, while many temples were used as military facilities, Shofuku-ji Temple was used as a military hospital to treat the wounded. The Nagaoka Domain, along with the Aizu Domain, joined the Ouetsu Reppan Alliance and engaged in fierce battles against the new government forces. During this time, Shofuku-ji Temple served as a treatment center for the wounded.
Kobayashi Torasaburo and the Nagaoka National and Cultural School
Shortly after the Boshin War, in 1869 (Meiji 2), Kobayashi Torasaburo, who had dedicated himself to the reconstruction of the Nagaoka Domain, borrowed the main hall of Shofuku-ji Temple, which had escaped destruction by fire, and opened a school. This marked the beginning of the “Nagaoka National and Cultural School.” In the war-torn land of Nagaoka, Kobayashi Torasaburo, guided by the spirit of “One Hundred Sacks of Rice,” believed that education was the foundation of reconstruction and established a place of learning in this location.
Currently, a stone monument marking the “Birthplace of the Nagaoka National and Cultural School” stands in front of the gate of Shofuku-ji Temple. It is a significant historical site in Nagaoka’s educational history and attracts many visitors. This monument symbolizes the Nagaoka citizens’ dedication to education.
Cultural Properties and Memorial Facilities within the Temple Grounds
Within the grounds of Shofuku-ji Temple stands a memorial tower for the victims of the Nagaoka air raid. The Nagaoka air raid on August 1, 1945, destroyed approximately 80% of the city and claimed many lives. This memorial tower is carefully preserved as a place to pass on the tragedy of war to future generations and to pray for peace.
Furthermore, the grave of Udono Danjiro, known as one of the foremost Western mathematicians of the late Edo period, is also located at this temple. Udono Danjiro was one of the pioneers who introduced Western mathematics to Japan and contributed to the modernization of the Nagaoka domain.
Value as one of the “100 Scenic Views of Echigo Nagaoka”
Shofuku-ji Temple has been selected as one of the “100 Scenic Views of Echigo Nagaoka” and is recognized as an important spot symbolizing the history and culture of Nagaoka. With its three historical aspects—the Boshin War, the origins of education, and the memory of war—this temple is an indispensable place when discussing the history of Nagaoka City.
Basic Information and Access
Location: Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture
Sect: Unknown (Confirmation Required)
Main Attractions: Monument marking the birthplace of Nagaoka National Chinese Language School, memorial tower for victims of the Nagaoka air raid, grave of Udono Danjiro
Access: Take a bus or taxi from JR Nagaoka Station
Parking: Available (Limited number of spaces)
Telephone Number: Can be confirmed at the Nagaoka City Tourism Association, etc.
Shofuku-ji Temple in Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture | A Nichiren Buddhist temple famous as a temple for curing insects
An ancient temple founded in 1298
Shofuku-ji Temple, located in Aoyagi, Fujikawa Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a Nichiren Buddhist temple with the mountain name Jumyozan (Jumyozan). It is an ancient temple with a history of over 700 years, founded in 1298. Its former head temple is Minobu-san Kuon-ji Temple, and it belongs to the Kyoshi Hōen (Zen Gakkai) sect.
The Legend of Nichiren Shonin and Zenchi Hoin
There is an interesting legend surrounding the founding of Shofuku-ji Temple, related to Nichiren Shonin. At the end of May in Bun’ei 11 (1274), Nichiren Shonin defeated Zenchi Hoin in a doctrinal debate in Komuro. However, Zenchi Hoin did not inwardly submit and secretly plotted to assassinate Nichiren Shonin with poisoned rice cakes.
However, his plot was discovered, and Zenchi Hoin deeply regretted his actions and eventually became a follower of Nichiren Shonin. During his training, he carved a wooden statue of Nichiren Shonin while chanting the title of the Lotus Sutra and praying for the longevity of human life. Because of this, the statue came to be known as the “Founder of Long Life.”
Faith as a Temple for Curing Insects
Shofuku-ji Temple is widely known as a “Temple for Curing Insects,” and is particularly believed to be effective in curing tantrums in infants and young children. “Kan no Mushi” is a traditional expression referring to symptoms in infants and young children such as night crying, irritability, and seizures.
During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the temple is bustling with many worshippers praying for the healthy growth of their children. The Mushikaji (prayer for warding off evil spirits) is still performed today, and it is a popular prayer that attracts many families from far and wide.
Emperor Reigen and the Sutra King Prayer Hall
It is said that the 12th head priest of this temple, Ichidoin Nichiho, cured Emperor Reigen’s illness through a prayer, and Shofuku-ji Temple came to be known as the “Sutra King Prayer Hall.” This history is believed to have further enhanced the temple’s status and the spread of its faith.
Prefectural Designated Cultural Properties
Shofuku-ji Temple houses several Yamanashi Prefecture designated tangible cultural properties (crafts) and tangible cultural properties (sculptures). These cultural properties tell the story of the temple’s long history and its cultural importance in the region.
Basic Information and Access
Location: Aoyagi, Fujikawa-cho, Minamikoma-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
Sect: Nichiren Buddhism
Mountain Name: Jyumyouzan (Jumyozan)
Founded: Einin 6 (1298)
Principal Image: Unknown (Confirmation required)
Main Benefits: Protection from insects (irritability), longevity
Annual Events: Insect-extermination ceremony during spring and autumn equinoxes
Access: Bus or taxi from Kajikazawaguchi Station on the JR Minobu Line
Telephone Number: Can be confirmed at the Fujikawa Town Tourism Association, etc.
Official Website: http://www.jyumyouzanshoufukuji.com/
Shofuku-ji Temple in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture | Shimofusa Seven Lucky Gods – Jurojin
Jodo Sect Temple
Shofuku-ji Temple in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, is a Jodo sect temple founded by Hondai Rensha Ryosen Shonin. This temple enshrines Jurōjin, one of the “Shimofusa Seven Lucky Gods” in the Narita City area.
Architectural Beauty of the Main Hall
The main hall is a magnificent structure, entirely constructed of zelkova wood, measuring ten bays by four bays. The ceiling is adorned with vividly colored paintings of various flowers, and the inner sanctuary’s transoms feature intricate carvings of dragons and other motifs. It is a valuable building that strongly retains the characteristics of temple architecture from the Edo to Meiji periods.
The Blessings of Jurōjin
Jurōjin has long been widely revered as the god of health and longevity. Many worshippers visit as part of the Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage to pray for health and longevity. The temple is especially crowded during the New Year’s Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage.
Basic Information and Access
Location: Narita City, Chiba Prefecture
Sect: Jodo Sect
Founder: Hontairensha Ryosen Shonin
Main Benefits: Health and Longevity
Seven Lucky Gods: Jurojin
Access: Bus or walking from JR Narita Station or Keisei Narita Station
Telephone Number: Available at Narita City Tourism Association
Shofuku-ji Temple, Asahi City, Chiba Prefecture | An Ancient Shingon Sect Temple
Founded in Tencho 5 (828 AD)
Shofuku-ji Temple in Asahi City, Chiba Prefecture, is a Shingon sect temple with a very long history, said to have been founded in Tencho 5 (828 AD). Founded in the early Heian period, it is one of the oldest temples in Chiba Prefecture.
Temple Treasures Associated with Kobo Daishi
Although many temple treasures were lost in a fire in July 1893 (Meiji 26), the temple still houses precious treasures, including the “Matsumushi Bell,” which is said to have been used by Kobo Daishi during his travels. This bell is carefully preserved as a testament to the faith in Kobo Daishi.
Sculptures in the Fudo Hall
The Fudo Hall on the temple grounds was used as a prayer hall by the Kuze family, and its carvings on the paneling and transoms are particularly famous. The decorations, which showcase the finest craftsmanship of the Edo period, captivate visitors.
Basic Information and Access
Location: Asahi City, Chiba Prefecture
Sect: Shingon Buddhism
Founded: Tenchō 5 (828)
Main Cultural Properties: Matsumushi Bell, Fudo Hall Sculptures
Access: Bus or taxi from JR Sōbu Main Line Asahi Station
Telephone Number: Available at Asahi City Tourism Association
Shōfuku-ji Temple, Ageo City, Saitama Prefecture | Temple with Perpetual Memorial Graves
An Ancient Temple Founded in Meiō 5
Shōfuku-ji Temple in Ageo City, Saitama Prefecture, is a temple with a history of over 500 years, founded in Meiō 5 (1496). It is known as a historically significant ancient temple that received a temple territory of 10 koku from Tokugawa Iemitsu during the Edo period.
Principal Image and Buddhist Statues
The principal image of Shōfuku-ji Temple is a Shakyamuni Buddha statue made using the yosegi-zukuri (joined wood) technique during the Edo period, and is enshrined in the main hall along with Fugen Bodhisattva and Monju Bodhisattva. In addition, the cemetery houses a wooden statue of Zen Master Dogen and many other Buddhist statues, making it a treasure trove of Buddhist art.
Perpetual Memorial Cemetery
In modern times, it is also known as a cemetery with perpetual memorial graves, and is used as a memorial facility for those who have no successors or who do not want to burden their descendants. It is a member of the nationwide network of perpetual memorial graves and tree burials.
Basic Information and Access
Location: Ageo City, Saitama Prefecture
Founded: Meio 5 (1496)
Principal Image: Shakyamuni Buddha
Main Buddhist Statues: Fugen Bodhisattva, Monju Bodhisattva, Statue of Dogen Zenji
Facilities: Perpetual Memorial Cemetery
Access: Bus or taxi from Ageo Station on the JR Takasaki Line
Telephone Number: Available on the official website
Shofuku-ji Temple in Kariya City, Aichi Prefecture | Jodo Sect Temple
Jueizan Shofuku-ji Temple
Shofuku-ji Temple, located in Noda-cho, Kariya City, Aichi Prefecture, is a Jodo Sect Chinzei branch temple with the mountain name Jueizan. The principal image is Amida Buddha.
Honen Shonin’s Twenty-Five Sacred Sites of Mikawa
Shofuku-ji Temple is designated as the 17th temple of the “Honen Shonin’s Twenty-Five Sacred Sites of Mikawa,” and holds an important position as a Jodo Sect pilgrimage temple. Many pilgrims who admire the teachings of Honen Shonin visit this temple.
Basic Information and Access
Location: 2-1 Nishiyashiki, Noda-cho, Kariya City, Aichi Prefecture
Sect: Jodo-shu Chinzei-ha
Mountain Name: Jueizan
Principal Image: Amida Buddha
Pilgrimage Site: 17th of the 25 Sacred Sites of Honen Shonin in Mikawa
Access: Walking distance or bus ride from Kariya-shi Station on the Meitetsu Mikawa Line
Telephone Number: Available at the Kariya City Tourism Association
Shofuku-ji Temple in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture | Famous Cherry Blossom Spot
A Mountain Temple Near Seiyun-ji Temple
Shofuku-ji Temple also exists in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, and is located a little further inland from Seiyun-ji Temple, which is known as a famous cherry blossom spot. It is reached by climbing a narrow, steep uphill road and retains a strong mountain temple atmosphere.
The Beauty of Weeping Cherry Blossoms
Behind the temple gate is a beautiful weeping cherry tree, attracting many visitors in spring. Because the temple is situated on the mountainside, the gate and cherry blossoms are compactly framed when viewed from above, creating a picturesque scene.
Basic Information and Access
Location: Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
Main Highlights: Weeping cherry blossoms, temple gate
Best Season: Spring (late March to early April)
Access: Walking distance or by car from Bushu-Hino Station on the Chichibu Railway
Parking: Limited (use parking lots around Seiyunji Temple)
Points to Consider When Visiting Shofukuji Temple
Understanding the Characteristics of Each Temple
Shofukuji temples, scattered throughout Japan, each belong to a different sect, have a different history, and offer different blessings. Understanding the characteristics of each temple before visiting will lead to a deeper pilgrimage experience.
Annual Events and Festivals
At Shofuku-ji Temple in Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, insect-extermination ceremonies are held during the spring and autumn equinoxes. At Shofuku-ji Temple in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, the Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage is popular during the New Year. Visiting during these event periods will allow you to enjoy a more lively atmosphere.
Access and Travel Time
Many Shofuku-ji Temples are somewhat inconvenient to access by public transport, so visiting by car is recommended. Especially for temples located in mountainous areas, it is advisable to check road conditions and navigation information in advance.
Temple Visiting Manners
Basic temple visiting manners include bowing at the temple gate, quietly joining hands in prayer in the main hall, refraining from speaking loudly on the temple grounds, and only taking photographs in designated areas.
Collecting Goshuin (Temple Stamps)
Many Shofuku-ji Temples offer Goshuin (temple stamps). Bring your Goshuincho (stamp book) and politely request one at the temple office after your visit. It’s also important to check contact information such as phone numbers in advance to avoid visiting when the temple is closed.
Summary
There are several temples named Shofukuji throughout Japan, each playing a unique role within its local history and culture. The Shofukuji in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, tells the story of the Boshin War and the history of education; the Shofukuji in Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, is known as a temple that protects children’s health; and the Shofukuji in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, is a center of Seven Lucky Gods worship. Each is cherished by the local residents.
Visiting these temples is not merely sightseeing; it’s a valuable opportunity to experience Japanese history, faith, and regional culture. Please refer to the basic information and access methods for each temple and consider visiting them. Seasonal events and festivals, temple architecture harmoniously integrated with the beautiful natural environment, and the forms of faith nurtured by long history will deeply impress visitors.
For the latest information, such as phone numbers and detailed opening hours, we recommend checking the local tourism association or the temple’s official website. Through your visit, experience the rich religious culture and profound history of Japan.
