Honshoji Temple Complete Guide: A Thorough Explanation of the History, Access, and Highlights of Honshoji Temples Nationwide
Honshoji is the name of a group of Buddhist temples located throughout Japan. Each Honshoji has a different 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 history, location, access methods, and highlights of major Honshoji temples.
Table of Contents
This article will explain the following in detail:
- What is Honsho-ji Temple?: Origin of the Name and Nationwide Distribution
- Shinagawa-shuku Honsho-ji Temple (Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo)
- Honsho-ji Temple (Nerima Ward, Tokyo)
- Honsho-ji Temple (Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture)
- Honsho-ji Temple (Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
- Honsho-ji Temple (Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture)
- Other Honsho-ji Temples
- Manners and Precautions When Visiting
What is Honsho-ji Temple?: Origin of the Name and Nationwide Distribution
The temple name “Honsho-ji” means “a temple that shines with its original light” in Buddhism. There are temples named Honsho-ji throughout Japan, each belonging to a different sect such as Nichiren Buddhism, Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, and Kenpon Hokke Buddhism.
The main Honsho-ji temples are located in the following areas:
- Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo (Shinagawa-shuku)
- Nishi-Oizumi, Nerima-ku, Tokyo
- Tomita-cho, Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture
- Shimokosawa, Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Naka-ku, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Each Honsho-ji temple is deeply connected to the history of its region and continues to preserve its unique cultural assets and traditions.
Shinagawa-shuku Honsho-ji Temple (Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo)
Overview and History
Honsho-ji Temple in Shinagawa-shuku is a historic Nichiren Buddhist temple located in Shinagawa-shuku on the Tokaido road. Founded over 500 years ago during the Muromachi period, it was initially a Shingon Buddhist temple but converted to the Nichiren sect in 1518.
During the time of the 28th head priest, in the 1970s, with the desire to spread Buddhist teachings beyond sectarian boundaries, it began operating as an independent temple within a single mountain complex. It values interaction with parishioners and local residents, operating as a familiar temple without being bound by formality. ### Activities of Terakoya Miroku
Honsho-ji Temple in Shinagawa practices modern temple management as “Terakoya Miroku.” Beyond traditional Buddhist ceremonies, it develops various activities as a community hub, exploring new ways for temples to function.
Location and Access
Location: Minami-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
Transportation Access:
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Shinbaba Station on the Keikyu Main Line
- Located along the old highway of Shinagawa-juku on the Tokaido
- Situated within the historical townscape of Shinagawa-juku, with numerous other historical sites nearby
Shinagawa-juku flourished as the first post town on the Tokaido during the Edo period, and Honsho-ji Temple is part of that historical landscape.
Honsho-ji Temple (Nerima-ku, Tokyo)
Overview and Founding
Honsho-ji Temple, located in Nishi-Oizumi, Nerima-ku, is a Nichiren Buddhist temple known as Ryokozan. It is said that the temple was founded in 1582 (Tensho 10) by Nichiyu Shonin.
The stone monument discovered during the reconstruction of the main hall also dates to “Tensho 10,” supporting the credibility of the founding date.
History as the Former Kogure Village Office
During the Meiji era, Honsho-ji Temple was used as the village office of Kogure Village (present-day Oizumi area). This fact indicates that Honsho-ji Temple functioned not only as a religious facility but also as a center of local administration, illustrating the importance of the temple to the local community.
Location and Access
Location: 3-11-3 Nishi-Oizumi, Nerima-ku, Tokyo
Transportation Access:
- Bus from Oizumi-Gakuen Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Musashi-Seki Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line
- Approximately 10 minutes by car from Oizumi IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway
Located in a quiet residential area of Nerima Ward, it is a beloved place of worship for the local people. ### Contact Information for Honsho-ji Temple
For details regarding visits and events, please contact the temple directly. Consultations regarding cemeteries and memorial services are also accepted.
Honsho-ji Temple (Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture)
Overview and History
Honsho-ji Temple, located in Tomita-cho, Takatsuki City, is a Jodo Shinshu Honganji-ha (Nishi Honganji) temple, also known as Fusuezan or Tomiyama, and commonly called “Tonda Gobo.”
Founded in 1427 (Oei 34) by Zonnyo, the 7th head of Honganji, it was initially called “Kosho-ji.” In 1646 (Shoho 3), it was renamed “Honsho-ji,” incorporating a character from Honganji.
The Status of Tomita Gobo
The term “Gobo” is used in Jodo Shinshu Buddhism to designate temples of particularly high status. Honsho-ji Temple has long been a central temple of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in the Tomita area, supporting the local faith.
Architecture and Cultural Assets
A magnificent temple gate stands on the east side of the temple, and the main hall preserves the architectural style of the Edo period. Historical stone monuments and cultural assets are preserved within the temple grounds, making it an important historical heritage site for Takatsuki City.
Location and Access
Location: Tomita-cho, Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture
Transportation Access:
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Tokaido Main Line “Settsu-Tomita Station”
- Approximately 12 minutes on foot from Hankyu Kyoto Line “Tomita Station”
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Meishin Expressway “Ibaraki IC”
The Tomita area is a historical region that developed as an ancient temple town, and Honsho-ji Temple is its central presence.
Connection to Takatsuki City
Honsho-ji Temple is featured on Takatsuki City’s official website and the Tourism Association’s “Takatsuki Marumaru Navi,” and is positioned as an important tourist and cultural resource of the city. It is one of Takatsuki City’s historical spots, alongside the Imajozuka Ancient History Museum and the Shiroato History Museum.
Honsho-ji Temple (Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
Overview
Honsho-ji Temple, located in Shimokosawa, Atsugi City, is one of the important temples in the Sagami region.
Location and Access
Location: 133 Shimokosawa, Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Transportation Access:
- Bus from Hon-Atsugi Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line
- Accessible by car from the Atsugi Interchange on the Tomei Expressway
Located in the rich natural environment of Atsugi City, it offers a peaceful environment for worship.
Honsho-ji Temple (Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture)
Overview and History
Honsho-ji Temple, located in Naka Ward, Hiroshima City, is an independent temple of the Kenpon Hokke sect, also known as Kokeizan.
It is said to have been founded in 1590 (Tensho 18) by Nichiei, a disciple of the 25th head priest of Myoman-ji Temple, Nichiin Shonin, after Nichiin Shonin’s death, via Myofuku-ji Temple in Iida, Kamo District.
Characteristics
As a temple of the Kenpon Hokke sect, it has developed uniquely while based on the teachings of Nichiren Shonin. Located in the heart of Hiroshima City, it functions as a center of faith in the urban area.
Location and Access
Location: Naka-ku, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Transportation Access:
- Accessible via all Hiroshima Electric Railway lines
- Located in the heart of Hiroshima City, easily accessible by public transportation
Other Honsho-ji Temples
There are other temples named “Honsho-ji” throughout Japan besides the one listed above. Each has its own unique characteristics reflecting the history and culture of its region.
Regional Characteristics
Each Honsho-ji temple has different cultural assets and traditional events depending on the historical background and sect of the region. When considering a visit, it is recommended to check the characteristics and visiting hours of each temple in advance.
Manners and Precautions When Visiting the Temple
Basic Manners for Visiting the Temple
When visiting Honsho-ji Temple, please observe the following manners:
- Attire: Avoid revealing clothing and aim for clean, understated attire.
- Bow at the Temple Gate: Bow at the temple gate when entering the temple grounds.
- Quietness: Be quiet on the temple grounds and refrain from loud conversations.
- Photography: Check if photography is permitted, and be especially careful inside the main hall.
- Offerings: Offer a donation within your means.
Differences in Customs by Sect
Honsho-ji Temple belongs to different sects depending on the temple:
- Nichiren Sect (Shinagawa, Nerima): Chant “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo”
- Jodo Shinshu Sect (Takatsuki): Chant “Namu Amida Butsu”
- Kenpon Hokke Sect (Hiroshima): The rituals are similar to those of the Nichiren sect.
Participation in Events and Memorial Services
Many Honsho-ji temples hold various memorial services and events throughout the year. Some events are open to the public; those interested should inquire at each temple.
Cemeteries and Perpetual Memorial Services
Several Honsho-ji temples, including Honsho-ji in Nerima Ward, offer cemeteries and perpetual memorial services. Please contact each temple directly for details.
Related Spots Around Honsho-ji Temple
Around Shinagawa-juku
Many historical buildings and sites from the Tokaido Shinagawa-juku remain around Honsho-ji Temple in Shinagawa. Other temples such as Shinagawa-dera, Kaiun-ji, and Isshin-ji are within walking distance, making it ideal for historical walks.
Around Takatsuki City
When visiting Honsho-ji Temple in Takatsuki City, you may also want to visit the following related spots:
- Imajozuka Ancient History Museum: A facility where you can learn about the history of the Kofun period
- Shiroato History Museum: Exhibits on the history of Takatsuki Castle
- Takatsuki Castle Ruins: The remains of a castle from the Sengoku period
- Ama Ruins: The remains of a large settlement from the Yayoi period
These spots are also introduced on the Takatsuki City official website, and together with Honsho-ji Temple, you can experience the history of Takatsuki.
Access Information to Honsho-ji Temple
Access by Public Transportation
Public transportation is convenient for accessing each Honsho-ji Temple:
- Shinagawa: The nearest station is Shinbaba Station on the Keikyu Line
- Nerima: Seibu Line’s Oizumi-gakuen Station or Musashi-seki Station
- Takatsuki: JR’s Settsu-Tomita Station or Hankyu’s Tomita Station
- Atsugi: Bus from Hon-Atsugi Station on the Odakyu Line
- Hiroshima: Hiroshima Electric Railway lines
Access by Car
While it is possible to visit by car, the availability and number of parking spaces vary depending on the temple. It is recommended to check in advance.
Cultural Value and Future Prospects of Honsho-ji Temple
Historical Value
Many Honsho-ji Temples throughout Japan were founded between the Muromachi and Edo periods, occupying an important position in the history of Japanese Buddhism. In particular, Honsho-ji Temple in Takatsuki is the oldest, founded in 1427 (Oei 34), boasting a history of nearly 600 years.
Relationship with Local Communities
In modern times, Honsho-ji temples serve not only as religious institutions but also as hubs for local communities. Initiatives like the “Terakoya Miroku” (temple school) at Honsho-ji Temple in Shinagawa are attracting attention as a new model of temple management that balances tradition and innovation.
Preservation of Cultural Properties
Each Honsho-ji temple preserves valuable cultural properties such as the main hall, temple gate, stone monuments, and stone steles. Passing on these cultural properties to future generations is a crucial issue in protecting Japan’s cultural heritage.
The Role of Temples in Modern Times
In modern society, characterized by a declining birthrate, an aging population, and increasing urbanization, temples are seeking new roles. While adapting to changes in the danka (parishioner) system, initiatives are underway in various regions to contribute to local communities as open temples.
References and External Links
For more information about Honsho-ji Temple, please refer to the following sources:
Official Websites and Local Government Websites
- Shinagawa-juku Honsho-ji Temple Official Website (Terakoya Miroku)
- Takatsuki City Official Website (Honsho-ji Temple Introduction Page)
- Takatsuki City Tourism Association “Takatsuki Marumaru Navi”
- Nerima Ward Related Temple Information Websites
Wikipedia
- Honsho-ji Temple (Nerima Ward) – Wikipedia
- Honsho-ji Temple (Takatsuki City) – Wikipedia
Temple Search Websites
Detailed information on each Honsho-ji Temple is also available on specialized websites that allow you to search for temple information nationwide.
Summary
Honsho-ji Temples exist throughout Japan, and each is an important temple with its own unique history and characteristics. Honsho-ji Temple in Shinagawa-shuku is a Nichiren Buddhist temple deeply intertwined with the history of the Tokaido road; Honsho-ji Temple in Nerima has a history of involvement with local administration; and Honsho-ji Temple in Takatsuki boasts a nearly 600-year history as a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple. Each of these temples has served as a center of faith and culture in its respective region.
When considering a visit, understanding the sect and historical background of each temple will lead to a deeper experience. Furthermore, visiting nearby historical sites and related facilities will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the region’s history and culture.
While preserving its historical heritage, Honsho-ji Temple continues to explore new roles in modern society. As a temple open to the community, it will undoubtedly continue to be a spiritual haven for many people.
