Complete Guide to Asahi-dera Temples | History, Origins, and Access Information for Asahi-dera Temples Across Japan
There are several temples named “Asahi-dera” throughout Japan, each with its own unique history and characteristics. This article provides detailed information on the origins, history, highlights of the temple grounds, and access methods for each Asahi-dera temple. This comprehensive guide is useful for those considering temple pilgrimages or visits, and for anyone interested in local history and culture.
What is Asahi-dera? | Overview of Temples with the Same Name Scattered Across Japan
The name “Asahi-dera” is used for temples throughout Japan. Its pronunciation varies by region, such as “Chōnichi-ji” or “Asahi-ji,” and the sects associated with each temple are diverse, including Sōtō Zen, Shingon Buddhism, Nichiren Buddhism, and Jōdo Buddhism. This indicates that the auspicious and hopeful symbolism of the rising sun has been widely accepted in Japanese Buddhist culture.
Major Asahi-dera temples include Rin’iwa-san Asahi-ji (Soto Zen sect, Hiji-cho, Hayami-gun, Oita Prefecture), Shoda-san Asahi-ji (Koyasan Shingon sect, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture), Kinpo-san Asahi-ji (Shingon sect, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture), Io-san Asahi-ji (Nichiren sect, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture), Reijaku-san Asahi-ji (Nichiren sect, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture), Jodo sect Asahi-ji (Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture), Shinshu Otani-ha Asahi-ji (Shinshu Otani sect, Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture), and Shida-san Asahi-ji (Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture).
This article will provide a detailed introduction to the characteristics and attractions of these major Asahi-dera temples.
Rin’iwa-san Chonichi-ji Temple (Hiji Town, Oita Prefecture) | An Ancient Temple of the Soto Zen School
History and Origins of Rin’iwa-san Chonichi-ji Temple
Located in Kawasaki, Hiji Town, Hayami District, Oita Prefecture, Rin’iwa-san Chonichi-ji Temple is a Soto Zen temple that enjoys deep roots in the local community. Its predecessor was a Tendai sect temple known as “Yakushi-do” (Medicine Buddha Hall) since the Nara period.
The Yakushi-do housed statues of Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), Nikko Bosatsu (Sunlight Bodhisattva), Gekko Bosatsu (Moonlight Bodhisattva), and the Twelve Heavenly Generals, serving as a center of faith for the local people. In 1672 (Kanbun 12), Kinoshita Toshinaga, the third lord of the Hiji Domain, officially founded Rin’iwa-san Chonichi-ji Temple on this site, praying for military success and the healing of eye diseases.
Since its founding by Kinoshita Toshinaga, Chonichi-ji Temple has developed under the patronage of the Hiji Domain and continues to serve as a spiritual center for the local people to this day. With a long history dating back to the Yakushido era, it is known as one of the oldest temples in the Kawasaki area.
Main Image and Highlights of the Temple Grounds
The main image of Rin’iwa-san Asahi-ji Temple is Shakyamuni Buddha. As a Soto Zen temple, it emphasizes meditation and its practice in daily life.
The temple grounds are located on a small hill overlooking a rural landscape, characterized by a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by nature. The main hall and other temple buildings exhibit a calm appearance that reflects the history of the region.
In recent years, the temple has also offered programs such as meditation and sutra copying/Buddhist image copying, making it an open temple not only to local residents but also to tourists and those seeking spiritual training. In particular, the Zen experience program in collaboration with the Grand Mercure Beppu Bay Resort & Spa is attracting attention as an opportunity to harmonize mind and body.
Activities and Events of Rin’iwa-san Asahi-ji Temple
Asahi-ji Temple holds various Buddhist events throughout the year. In addition to regular Dharma talks and Zen meditation sessions, the temple also holds seasonal events such as Setsubun (bean-throwing festival), playing a central role in the local community.
The head priest, Reverend Takumoto Kudo, emphasizes applying traditional Buddhist teachings to modern life and strives for an open temple management style that is accessible to everyone. He actively disseminates information through social media, and the temple’s activities are also featured on the official Soto Zen Instagram account.
Access Information
Location: Kawasaki, Hiji-machi, Hayami-gun, Oita Prefecture
The temple is accessible by car from the center of Hiji-machi. The nearest station is Yōgoku Station on the JR Nippo Main Line, from which you can take a taxi or local bus. For detailed access information, please contact the temple directly or check the Hiji-machi Tourism Information official website.
Chōnichiji Temple (Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture) | A Sacred Site of the Shingon Sect
History and Characteristics of Chōnichiji Temple
Located in Chōnichiji, Ōku-chō, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, Chōnichiji Temple is a temple belonging to the Kōyasan Shingon sect. Although a small temple in a rural area, it maintains close ties with the local community and aims to be an open temple accessible to everyone.
The temple conducts religious services and practices based on the teachings of the Shingon sect, preserving the traditions of esoteric Buddhism while building relationships with parishioners and visitors through a modern approach. The temple’s website provides information on its history, access, and annual events, allowing visitors to check details before their visit.
Annual Events and Access
Chōnichiji Temple holds annual events in accordance with the traditions of the Shingon sect. Seasonal services such as Setsubun (bean-throwing festival), spring and autumn equinox services, and Obon (Buddhist festival) services are held together with the local community. Location: Shoda, Oku-cho, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture
For detailed access information, please check the temple’s official website (chonichiji.net).
Kinpozan Asahi-ji Temple (Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture) | Izumo Province Thirteen Buddhist Sacred Sites
History of Kinpozan Asahi-ji Temple
Kinpozan Asahi-ji Temple, located in Sadahongo, Kashima-cho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, is a Shingon Buddhist temple and one of the Izumo Province Thirteen Buddhist Sacred Sites.
The land on which this temple stands has been a sacred site worshipped as Kannabiyama since ancient times. It is said to have been founded by Gyoki Bodhisattva during the Jinki era (724-729), and later, due to a visit by Kobo Daishi (Kukai), it has continued to uphold the teachings of the Shingon sect to this day.
Role as a Sacred Site
This temple is a pilgrimage site of the Izumo Thirteen Buddhas, attracting many pilgrims. The Thirteen Buddhas faith is a belief system focused on the repose of the souls of the deceased and the pursuit of worldly blessings. It involves visiting thirteen Buddhas corresponding to thirteen memorial services, from the seventh day after death to the thirty-third anniversary.
From the temple grounds, one can enjoy the rich natural scenery of Izumo, and feel the sacred atmosphere of this holy site.
Access Information
Location: 2140 Sadahongo, Kashima-cho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture 690-0332
It is approximately a 30-minute drive from the center of Matsue City. Many people visit as part of the Izumo Thirteen Buddhas pilgrimage; referring to a pilgrimage route map will allow for efficient visitation.
Iōzan Chōnichi-ji Temple (Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture) | An Ancient Nichiren Buddhist Temple
History of Iōzan Chōnichi-ji Temple
Located in Yokomakura, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture, Iōzan Chōnichi-ji Temple is a Nichiren Buddhist temple. Founded in the Nara period, in the 21st year of the Tenpyō era (749 AD), it is known as an ancient temple with a very long history.
During the Kenmu era of the Nanboku-chō period (1334-1336), the Yamana clan, who were devoted to the Yakushi Bodhisattva enshrined at this temple, constructed the temple buildings. The Yamana clan was a powerful daimyo (feudal lord) who ruled Inaba Province, and under their patronage, Chōnichi-ji Temple flourished.
Characteristics of the Temple
As its mountain name, Iōzan, suggests, this temple has a deep connection to the worship of Yakushi (Medicine Buddha). The worship of Yakushi Bodhisattva has been a spiritual anchor for people praying for recovery from illness and longevity. Currently, it operates as a Nichiren Buddhist temple, conducting religious activities based on the teachings of the Lotus Sutra.
Access Information
Location: Yokomakura, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture
It is accessible from Tottori city center. For detailed transportation information, please contact the temple in advance.
Reijakuzan Asahiji Temple (Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture) | Nichiren Buddhist Temple
Origin of Reijakuzan Asahiji Temple
Reijakuzan Asahiji Temple, located in Daisencho, Sakai Ward, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture, is a Nichiren Buddhist temple. Its former head temple was Tanimachi Myokyoji Temple, and it belongs to the Shoshi lineage.
In 1752 (Horeki 2), the daughter of Yamamoto Jinsuke, a resident of Sakai, converted to Nichiren Buddhism, leading to its founding near present-day Morinomiya, Osaka City. Later, it moved to its current location in Daisencho, Sakai City, where it remains today.
Temple Location and Characteristics
As the place name, Daisen-cho, suggests, this temple is located near the Nintoku Emperor’s Mausoleum (Daisen Kofun), a World Heritage Site. Situated in a historical area of Sakai City, it continues to operate as a temple deeply intertwined with the local history and culture.
Access Information
Location: Daisen-cho, Sakai-ku, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture
Accessible from JR Hanwa Line Mozu Station or Nankai Koya Line Sakaihigashi Station. It can be visited in conjunction with sightseeing at the Nintoku Emperor’s Mausoleum.
Asahi-dera Temple (Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture) | Jodo Sect Temple
Asahi-dera Temple, located in Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture, is a temple belonging to the Jodo sect. It is registered on a Jodo sect temple search website and practices Nembutsu faith based on the teachings of the Jodo sect.
With Amida Buddha as its principal deity, it transmits the Jodo sect’s teaching of wishing for rebirth in the Pure Land by chanting the Nembutsu, “Namu Amida Butsu.”
Location: Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture
Detailed information can be found on the Jodo-shu temple search website.
Other Asahi-dera Temples
Shidayama Asahi-dera Temple (Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
Shidayama Asahi-dera Temple, located in Nagatake, Midori-ku, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, operates as an independent temple. It operates independently as a place of faith rooted in the local community.
Location: Nagatake, Midori-ku, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Asahi-dera Temple (Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture)
Asahi-dera Temple, located in Tarohara-cho, Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is an independent temple of the Shinshu Otani sect. It operates independently while based on the teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.
Location: Tarohara-cho, Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Etiquette and Manners for Visiting Asahi-dera Temples
When visiting temples, including Asahi-dera Temple, it is important to observe the following basic manners.
Basic Manners for Visiting a Temple
- Attire: Please wear clean and understated clothing. Avoid revealing or flashy clothing.
- Bow at the Temple Gate: Before passing through the temple gate, bow to show respect for entering the realm of Buddha.
- Watering Rituals: If there is a watering basin, cleanse your left hand, then your right hand, then your mouth, purifying yourself before praying.
- Praying at the Main Hall: Before the main hall, quietly join your hands in prayer and offer a sincere bow. Rituals may vary depending on the sect, so please ask a temple staff member if you are unsure.
- Photography: Photography is often permitted on the temple grounds, but photography inside the main hall or of Buddha statues may be prohibited. Please check beforehand.
- Quietness: Please be quiet on the temple grounds and be considerate of other visitors.
Characteristics of Each Buddhist Sect
Asahi-dera Temple has different forms of worship depending on the Buddhist sect.
- Soto Zen: Emphasizes Zen meditation and views daily life itself as a form of spiritual practice.
- Shingon Buddhism: Based on the teachings of Esoteric Buddhism, practices include chanting mantras and fire rituals.
- Nichiren Buddhism: The Lotus Sutra is the fundamental scripture, and the mantra “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo” is chanted.
- Jodo Buddhism: Chants the Nembutsu to Amida Buddha and prays for rebirth in paradise.
Understanding the characteristics of each sect will lead to a deeper pilgrimage experience.
Experiential Programs and Activities at Asahi-dera Temple
Many Asahi-dera temples offer experiential programs and activities that are open to the general public.
Zen Meditation Experience
In particular, Rin’iwa-zan Asahi-dera Temple (Hiji-machi, Oita Prefecture), a Soto Zen temple, offers a comprehensive Zen meditation experience program. To make it easy for beginners to participate, careful instruction is provided on the etiquette and breathing techniques of Zen meditation.
Through Zen meditation, you can calm your mind and take time to reflect on yourself away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, which will be a valuable experience for modern people.
Sutra Copying and Buddha Image Copying Experience
Sutra copying is the practice of copying Buddhist scriptures, which has the effect of increasing concentration and calming the mind. Buddha image copying involves drawing and copying the image of Buddha, and is similarly a popular practice for calming the mind.
Many Asahi-dera temples regularly hold these experience programs, and beginners can easily participate.
Dharma Talks
Dharma talks by the head priest are a valuable opportunity to learn about Buddhist teachings and apply them to daily life. A wide range of topics are covered, from basic Buddhist teachings to how to deal with the problems of modern society.
Participation in Annual Events
By participating in seasonal events such as Setsubun (bean-throwing festival), Hana Matsuri (flower festival), Obon (Buddhist festival), and Higan (equinox) services, you can experience traditional Japanese Buddhist culture.
Tourist Information Around Asahi-dera Temple
When visiting Asahi-dera Temple, exploring the surrounding tourist spots will enhance your travel experience.
Around Hiji Town, Oita Prefecture
Hiji Town, where Rin’iganzan Asahi-dera Temple is located, is a scenic area facing Beppu Bay. It offers easy access to historical buildings such as Hiji Castle Ruins, Yōkoku Castle Ruins, and Tekiyama-sō, as well as the Beppu Onsen hot spring resort. A stay plan combining Zen experiences and hot springs in collaboration with Grand Mercure Beppu Bay Resort & Spa is also recommended.
Around Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture
Setouchi City, where Shōda-yama Asahi-dera Temple is located, is blessed with beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea and a mild climate. There are many spots to enjoy nature, such as Ushimado Olive Garden, Maejima Island, and Kuroiyama Green Park.
Around Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture
Matsue City, home to Kinpozan Asahi-ji Temple, is a tourist city where you can enjoy both history and nature, with attractions such as Matsue Castle (National Treasure), Lake Shinji, and the Horikawa Canal cruise. It also offers good access to Izumo Taisha Shrine, making it a recommended destination to visit in conjunction with the Izumo Thirteen Buddha Pilgrimage.
Around Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture
Sakai City, home to Reijakuzan Asahi-ji Temple, is a historical city boasting the World Heritage Site of the Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group, a tea ceremony culture associated with Sen no Rikyu, and thriving traditional industries such as cutlery and bicycles. Visiting it in conjunction with the Emperor Nintoku Mausoleum and the Sakai City Museum allows you to experience Japanese history from ancient to modern times.
Inquiries and Information Gathering Regarding Asahi-ji Temple
It is important to check the latest information before visiting Asahi-ji Temple.
Utilizing the Official Website
Many Asahi-ji temples have official websites that provide event schedules, access information, and details on experiential programs. Detailed information is available, especially for Chonichiji Temple (chonichiji.net) in Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture.
Soto Zen Navi Temple Search Site
The official Soto Zen temple portal site, “Soto Zen Navi,” features detailed information on Rin’iwa-san Asahiji Temple in Hiji Town, Oita Prefecture. The Jodo Sect temple search site allows you to check information on Asahiji Temple in Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture.
Information Dissemination on Social Media
Asahiji Temple’s daily life and events are also shared on social media platforms such as Instagram. Following the official Soto Zen Instagram account and individual temple accounts allows you to obtain real-time information.
Direct Inquiries
If you wish to visit or participate in an experience program, it is recommended to contact the temple by phone or email in advance. Prior contact is essential, especially for group visits or requests for special memorial services.
Summary
Asahiji Temples, scattered throughout Japan, each possess their own unique history and characteristics, playing an important role as centers of local faith and culture. While belonging to different sects such as the Soto, Shingon, Nichiren, and Jodo schools, these temples all transmit Buddhist teachings to the modern age and serve as places of peace and tranquility for people.
The experiences offered by each Asahi-ji temple—such as the Zen meditation experience at Rin’iwa-san Asahi-ji in Hiji-machi, Oita Prefecture, the community-based activities at Shoda-san Asahi-ji in Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, and the sacred role of Kinpo-san Asahi-ji in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture—bring new insights and inner peace to visitors.
Temple visits are not merely sightseeing; they are a valuable opportunity to confront oneself and find inner peace. By visiting the Asahi-ji temples introduced in this article, you can experience the diversity and depth of Japanese Buddhist culture and gain wisdom that can be applied to your daily life.
When planning your visit to an Asahi-ji temple, please use the information in this article as a reference, check the latest information on each temple’s official website or social media, and enjoy a fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
