Anzai-ji Temple (Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture) | Complete Guide to the Higen Jizo Statue, History, Access, and Goshuin Information
Anzai-ji Temple, located in Maruyama-cho, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a historic Jishu sect temple founded in 1317. Known for enshrining the Higen Jizo statue, it has long been a center of local faith. This article provides detailed information for those considering a visit to Anzai-ji Temple, including its history, facility features, transportation access, goshuin information, and usage as a cemetery/burial ground.
Basic Information about Anzai-ji Temple
Official Name: Jōkyūsan Anzai-ji
Sect: Jishū (Ji-shū sect)
Principal Image: Amida Buddha
Special Image: Higen Jizō (Jizo Bodhisattva)
Address: 23 Maruyama-cho, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture 420-0861
Phone Number: 054-246-6251
Sacred Site: 20th Temple of the Shizuoka New Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage
Principal Image of the Sacred Site: Senju Sengan Kannon (Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Kannon)
Anzai-ji Temple is located slightly north of the center of Shizuoka City, in a quiet residential area. It has a main hall, living quarters, and a cemetery, and welcomes not only local parishioners but also a wide range of general visitors.
History and Origins of Anzai-ji Temple
Founding and First Abbot
Anzai-ji Temple is an ancient temple with a history of over 700 years, founded in 1317 (Bunpo 1). Its first abbot was Chitoku Shonin, known as the third itinerant leader of the Jishu sect. The Jishu sect is a branch of Pure Land Buddhism founded by Ippen Shonin during the Kamakura period, characterized by its itinerant practice of traveling throughout Japan while chanting the Nembutsu (invocation of Amida Buddha).
Chitoku Shonin was a grand-disciple of Ippen Shonin and an important figure in spreading the teachings of the Jishu sect throughout the Tokai region. The establishment of Anzai-ji Temple in Shizuoka was of great significance in forming a base for Jishu faith in this region.
Relationship with Sunpu Castle and the Jizo Bodhisattva
A noteworthy aspect of Anzai-ji Temple’s history is its deep connection with Sunpu Castle. In the past, a Jizo Bodhisattva was enshrined in the second bailey of Sunpu Castle (at a time when it was located in a different place than its current location) as a protection against evil spirits. This Jizo Bodhisattva was later moved to Anzai-ji Temple, and thus came to be enshrined as “Higiri Jizo-son” (Day-Limit Jizo).
Higiri Jizo-son is a Jizo Bodhisattva believed to be effective if one prays to it within a specific number of days. Due to its history as the guardian deity of Sunpu Castle, it attracts many worshippers seeking protection from misfortune, family safety, and business prosperity.
The Transmission of Faith Across Time
During the Edo period, Tokugawa Ieyasu established his castle in Sunpu, and Shizuoka flourished as a political and economic center. Anzai-ji Temple also developed into a prominent local temple during this time, gaining many parishioners.
Despite the impact of the anti-Buddhist movement after the Meiji Restoration, it survived thanks to the fervent faith of local residents, and continues to uphold its religious traditions to this day.
Highlights and Features of Anzai-ji Temple
Higiri Jizo-son
The most distinctive feature of Anzai-ji Temple is undoubtedly the presence of the Higiri Jizo-son. This Jizo statue, which has a history of being enshrined as a protector against evil spirits from the northeast of Sunpu Castle, attracts many worshippers.
When visiting, it is recommended to set a date for making your wish and pray accordingly. It is believed that setting a deadline, such as “within ○ days,” will bring the protection of Jizo Bodhisattva.
Shizuoka New Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage
Anzai-ji Temple is designated as the 20th temple of the Shizuoka New Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage. The principal image of the pilgrimage is the Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Kannon, and it is an important sacred site visited by those undertaking Kannon pilgrimages.
The Kannon pilgrimage is a form of spiritual practice in which it is believed that by visiting 33 temples, one can accumulate merit and have their wishes granted. Anzai-ji Temple also offers Goshuin (temple stamps) for pilgrims.
Main Hall and Temple Grounds
The main hall has a tranquil appearance, possessing a simple yet solemn atmosphere typical of Jishu sect temples. The temple grounds are meticulously clean, providing a peaceful environment for worship.
The temple grounds also include a cemetery, where various types of graves, from old to new, are lined up.
Goshuin Information
Anzai-ji Temple offers goshuin (temple stamps). In particular, as a pilgrimage site for the Shizuoka New Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, a special goshuin for the pilgrimage is available.
Types of Goshuin
- Standard Goshuin: Calligraphy of Anzai-ji Temple’s name and the principal image of the temple.
- Pilgrimage Goshuin: A goshuin for the 20th pilgrimage site of the Shizuoka New Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, with calligraphy of “Senju Sengan Kannon” (Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Kannon).
Goshuin Reception
Goshuin are available at the temple office (kuri). Please ask for one after your visit. Direct writing in your goshuin book is the norm, but if the staff is absent, a pre-written goshuin may be provided.
Offering Fee: Approximately 300 yen (Please offer what you feel is appropriate)
Reception Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Please contact us in advance if you wish to be sure of receiving service, as we may be absent for memorial services, etc.)
Access and Transportation Information to Anzai-ji Temple
This section provides detailed information on how to access Anzai-ji Temple, located in Maruyama-cho, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture.
Location
23 Maruyama-cho, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture 420-0861
Access by Train and Bus
Nearest Station: Shin-Shizuoka Station (Shizuoka Railway Shizuoka-Shimizu Line)
Anzai-ji Temple is approximately 2.4 km from Shin-Shizuoka Station.
Recommended Bus Access
- Take a Shizuoka City Bus from Shin-Shizuoka Station or Shizuoka Station.
- Get off at the “Maruyama-cho” bus stop.
- Approximately 2 minutes on foot from the bus stop.
Using the bus is the most convenient way to access the temple. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes from Shin-Shizuoka Station.
Access on Foot
Walking from Shin-Shizuoka Station takes approximately 24 to 30 minutes. Those with strong legs or who enjoy a stroll can access the temple on foot.
Access by Car
Using Expressways:
- Approximately 20 minutes from the Tomei Expressway “Shizuoka Interchange”
- Approximately 25 minutes from the Shin-Tomei Expressway “Shin-Shizuoka Interchange”
Parking: Parking is available at the temple, but spaces are limited. During memorial services and events, it may be crowded, so using public transportation is recommended.
Access from Nearby Facilities
- From Shizuoka Station: Approximately 3km, about 15 minutes by car
- From Shizuoka City Hall: Approximately 2km, about 10 minutes by car
Information on Anzai-ji Temple’s Cemetery
Anzai-ji Temple offers general burial plots (graves with tombstones) as a temple cemetery.
Cemetery Features
- Religious Affiliation: Generally, membership in the Jishu sect is required, but consultation may be possible for those of other sects.
- Location: Conveniently located near the center of Shizuoka City with good transportation access.
- Environment: Located in a quiet residential area, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
- Management: Appropriate management is provided by the temple.
Price Information Guide
Cemetery plot prices, including tombstone and perpetual use fee, start from 1,060,000 yen. However, prices vary depending on the size and location of the plot, tombstone design, etc.
What’s Included in the Fee:
- Perpetual Use Fee (Land Use Rights)
- Gravestone Cost
- Construction Costs
Additional Costs:
- Annual Management Fee
- Offering for Memorial Services
Application Process
- Request for Information/Inquiry: Inquire by phone or through the website
- On-site Visit: Visit the temple and tour the cemetery
- Consultation/Estimate: Discuss your desired plot and gravestone
- Application: Preparation and submission of contract documents
- Becoming a Temple Member: Procedures for becoming a temple member of the Jishu sect (if necessary)
- Gravestone Construction: Design and construction of the gravestone
- Consecration Ceremony: After completion, a ceremony to imbue the gravestone with soul is held
Points to Consider When Choosing a Cemetery
Points to Consider When Considering Anzai-ji Temple’s Cemetery:
- Transportation Access: Convenient access by bus from Shin-Shizuoka Station for visiting graves
- History and Prestige: A temple with a 700-year history, offering a sense of security.
- Management System: The temple provides daily maintenance, and the cemetery is kept clean.
- Religious Background: Memorial services based on the teachings of the Jishu sect are available.
- Surrounding Environment: Close to the center of Shizuoka City, convenient for shopping and dining.
Memorial Services and Rituals at Anzai-ji Temple
Annual Events
Anzai-ji Temple holds various memorial services throughout the year. The main events include the following:
- Spring and Autumn Equinox Services: An important time for ancestor worship
- Obon Segaki Memorial Service: An ancestor worship service held in August
- Jizo Bon: The festival day of Jizo Bodhisattva
Individual Memorial Services
We also accept individual memorial services for parishioners and cemetery users, such as the following:
- Annual memorial services (first anniversary, third anniversary, seventh anniversary, etc.)
- Monthly memorial services
- Interment services
- Eye-opening services (when a tombstone is erected)
To request a memorial service, please contact the temple by phone in advance to schedule a date.
Manners and Precautions for Visiting a Temple
Proper Etiquette for Visiting a Temple
- Bow at the Temple Gate: Bow before entering the temple grounds.
- Purify Your Hands: If there is a purification fountain, purify your hands.
- Visit the Main Hall: Join your hands in prayer in front of the main hall and pray quietly.
- Purchase the Jizo Bodhisattva with a Specific Day: If you have a wish, set a date and pray.
- Bow Upon Departure: Bow again when leaving the temple grounds.
Precautions for Visiting a Temple
- Dress Code: There are no particularly strict regulations, but please avoid revealing clothing.
- Photography: Photography is permitted on the temple grounds, but consideration for the interior of the main hall and other visitors is necessary.
- Silence: Temples are places of prayer. Please refrain from speaking loudly.
- Parking: Due to limited parking spaces, please use public transportation whenever possible.
Comparison with other temples in Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City
There are many temples in Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, besides Anzai-ji Temple. Here are some of the main temples in the vicinity.
Zuiko-ji Temple
Location: 1-100-1 Anzai, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 18-minute walk from Shin-Shizuoka Station
Features: Also located in Aoi Ward, in the Anzai area.
Rinzai-ji Temple
One of the representative temples of Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, known for its connection to Imagawa Yoshimoto.
Hōdai-in Temple
Famous for its connection to Tokugawa Ieyasu, and located near Sunpu Castle.
Anzai-ji Temple has a unique character, belonging to the distinctive Jishū sect and possessing its own unique object of worship, the Nichigen Jizō-son.
Tourist Spots Around Anzai-ji Temple
Here are some nearby spots you can visit when you come to Anzai-ji Temple. ### Sunpu Castle Park
Located about 10 minutes by car from Anzai-ji Temple, this historical site is associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu. It has been developed into a vast park, and archaeological excavations of the castle keep’s foundation are also being conducted.
Shizuoka Sengen Shrine
A representative shrine of Shizuoka, located about 15 minutes by car from Anzai-ji Temple. The magnificent shrine architecture is a highlight.
Shizuoka City Museum of Art
An art museum located near Shizuoka Station, known for its extensive special exhibitions.
Gofuku-cho/Shichiken-cho
Shizuoka’s downtown area, offering opportunities for shopping and dining.
Summary: Anzai-ji Temple: A Place of Prayer Where You Can Feel Shizuoka’s History
Located in Maruyama-cho, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Anzai-ji Temple is a historic Jishu sect temple founded in 1317. Enshrining the Nichigen Jizo Bodhisattva and deeply connected to Sunpu Castle, this temple has attracted the faith of the local community for over 700 years.
Known as the 20th temple on the Shizuoka New Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, Anzai-ji Temple attracts many visitors seeking its Goshuin (temple stamp). Conveniently located and accessible by bus from Shin-Shizuoka Station, it also serves as a cemetery and memorial park.
For those wishing to experience Shizuoka’s history and culture, those seeking quiet prayer, or those looking for a place to honor their ancestors, Anzai-ji Temple is well worth a visit. Please consider visiting to offer prayers to the Jizo Bodhisattva or as part of a Kannon pilgrimage.
Contact Information:
Shirokyuzan Anzai-ji Temple
23 Maruyama-cho, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture 420-0861
TEL: 054-246-6251
For details regarding visits and cemeteries, please contact the temple directly. They will provide courteous assistance.
