Complete Guide to Henjo-ji Temples: A Thorough Explanation of Famous Temples Nationwide, Including History, Access, and Highlights
There are several temples named Henjo-ji throughout Japan. Each possesses its own unique history and cultural assets, and has played an important role as a center of local faith. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of Henjo-ji temples in various locations, including Kyoto, Tokyo, Kawasaki, and Gunma, from their historical background to their current state.
What is Henjo-ji Temple?: Origin of the Name and Nationwide Distribution
The name “Henjo” originates from “Henjo Kongo,” the posthumous name of Kobo Daishi Kukai, the founder of the Shingon sect. It can also refer to Henjo Sojo, a poet and monk of the Heian period. Therefore, temples bearing the name Henjo-ji are mainly found in esoteric Buddhist sects such as the Shingon and Tendai sects.
The existence of Henjo-ji temples throughout Japan indicates the widespread devotion to these high-ranking monks. Each Henjo-ji temple is deeply intertwined with local history and has developed uniquely.
Henjo-ji Temple in Sagano, Kyoto: An Ancient Temple on the Shores of Hirosawa Pond
History and Founding
Located in Sagano Hirosawa Nishiura-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Henjo-ji Temple is a semi-special head temple of the Omuro branch of Shingon Buddhism, situated south of Hirosawa Pond. The temple’s history dates back to the Heian period.
According to temple tradition, Henjo-ji Temple was founded by the monk Kancho. Kancho was a high-ranking monk and grandson of Emperor Uda, and is said to have built the temple buildings on this site along with Hirosawa Pond. Kancho is also known for performing prayers to subdue Taira no Masakado during his rebellion, and for this achievement, he is also considered the founder of Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple.
Principal Image and Cultural Property
The principal image of Henjo-ji Temple is a seated statue of Fudo Myoo, believed to have been created at the time of the temple’s founding. This statue is designated as an Important Cultural Property and is a valuable legacy that conveys Heian period Buddhist art to the present day.
The temple gate was built during the Bunsei era (1818-1831) and is a Yakui-mon style gate with a tiled roof and candle-shaped roofing. It is a valuable historical structure that conveys the architectural style of the late Edo period and is still carefully preserved today.
Hirosawa Pond and the Sending Off of Spirits
Inseparable from Henjo-ji Temple is Hirosawa Pond, which stretches out before it. This artificial pond was constructed during the Heian period and is a representative feature of the Sagano landscape.
Every year on August 16th, from 7 PM, the lantern-floating ceremony for sending off spirits takes place on Hirosawa Pond. This event, along with Kyoto’s Gozan Okuribi (five mountain bonfires), is a traditional Obon event that attracts many worshippers and tourists. The countless lanterns floating on the water create a fantastical scene, and the atmosphere is solemn as to send off the spirits of the deceased.
Access Information
Henjo-ji Temple in Kyoto is approximately a 20-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station or Randen Arashiyama Station, or approximately a 5-minute walk from the “Hirosawaike” bus stop. Its location is ideal for a visit as part of a stroll through Sagano.
Henjo-ji Temple in Itabashi Ward, Tokyo: A Temple that Tells the History of a Post Town
From Tendai Sect Temple to Shingon Sect Temple in the Edo Period
Henjo-ji Temple, located in Nakajuku, Itabashi Ward, Tokyo, is a temple that tells the history of Itabashi-juku on the Nakasendo road. During the Edo period, it was known as Dainichi-zan and functioned as the only Tendai sect temple in Itabashi Ward.
The current Henjo-ji Temple converted to a Shingon sect temple in 1947. The principal image is Fudo Myoo, invited from Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple in Chiba Prefecture, indicating that the Naritasan faith had spread to Tokyo.
Traces of the Horse Tethering Grounds from the Post Town Era
What makes Henjo-ji Temple in Itabashi particularly interesting is that it retains traces of the horse tethering grounds from the post town era. Itabashi-juku, which flourished as a post town on the Nakasendo highway, saw a constant flow of travelers and horses. Within the temple grounds, traces of where travelers tethered their horses remain, telling the story of its history as a vital transportation hub during the Edo period.
Connection between Tourism and the Local Community
Henjo-ji Temple, also featured in the Itabashi Ward Tourism Association’s guide, holds an important position as a local historical tourist spot. As part of a historical walking course along the Nakasendo Itabashi-juku, it is a popular destination for many history enthusiasts.
Access Information
It is easily accessible from central Tokyo, approximately a 5-minute walk from Itabashi-ku Yakusho-mae Station on the Toei Mita Line and approximately a 10-minute walk from Itabashi Station on the JR Saikyo Line.
Henjo-ji Temple, Kawasaki Ward, Kawasaki City: An Ancient Tendai Sect Temple
Historical Background with Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple as its Head Temple
Komyozan Henjo-ji Temple, located in Kawasaki Ward, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is an ancient Tendai sect temple with Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple as its head temple. It is known as a temple that has valued interaction with the local community since the early Edo period.
Modern Cemetery and Columbarium Services
Currently, Henjo-ji Temple in Kawasaki is developing cemetery services that meet modern needs, such as tree burials and grave closures. Taking advantage of its convenient location with easy access from Ota Ward in Tokyo, it plays a role in supporting end-of-life planning for people in the Tokyo metropolitan area.
A distinctive feature is that it proposes modern forms of memorial services, such as offering tree burial rights, in addition to traditional cemeteries.
Access Information
It is accessible by bus from JR Kawasaki Station or Keikyu Kawasaki Station, making it easily accessible from Tokyo.
Henjo-ji Temple in Showa Village, Gunma Prefecture: A Tendai Buddhist Temple Known for its Oni-Odori Dance
1150 Years of History
Keitokuzan Omuroin Henjo-ji Temple, located in Showa Village, Tone District, Gunma Prefecture, is an ancient Tendai Buddhist temple boasting a history of over 1150 years since its founding. This temple has long played a vital role as a center of local faith.
The Only Oni-Odori Dance in the Kanto Region
The most notable feature of Henjo-ji Temple in Gunma is its Oni-Odori dance, the only one of its kind in the Kanto region. This traditional event takes place during the Setsubun festival and is known as a unique ritual in which demons dance.
It is solemnly held every February as the Showa Gansan Daishi Setsubun Festival, attracting many worshippers. Gansan Daishi (Ryogen) is a highly revered priest, considered the restorer of the Tendai sect, and is known for his association with protection against evil.
Annual Events such as the Segaki Ceremony
Henjo-ji Temple regularly holds various Buddhist ceremonies, including the Segaki Ceremony. It welcomes not only local parishioners but also the general public, serving as a place to spread Buddhist teachings.
Access Information
It can be accessed by bus from Numata Station on the JR Joetsu Line, making it a convenient visit in conjunction with sightseeing in northern Gunma Prefecture.
Henjo-ji Temple in Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture: A Temple of Kobo Daishi Legend
There is also a Henjo-ji Temple in Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture. This temple has a legend of being founded by Kobo Daishi Kukai, demonstrating the deep roots of Shingon Buddhism in the region.
It is designated as a historical and cultural asset of Kaizuka City and is an important spot for understanding the region’s history.
Henjo-ji Temple in Minato Ward, Tokyo: A Cemetery/Memorial Park in the City Center
There is also a Henjo-ji Temple in Minato Ward, Tokyo, which primarily functions as a cemetery/memorial park. Taking advantage of its central location, it is used as an easily accessible cemetery.
As a modern urban temple, it provides cemetery management and memorial service services, operating in a way that meets the needs of busy modern people.
Points to Note When Visiting Henjo-ji Temple
Temple Visiting Etiquette
When visiting a temple, please observe the following basic manners:
- Bow at the main gate before entering the temple grounds
- Pray quietly with clasped hands in the main hall
- Take photographs only in designated areas
- Maintain silence and refrain from speaking loudly on the temple grounds
- Always take your trash with you
Visiting Hours and Admission Fees
Visiting hours and admission fees vary depending on the Henjo-ji temple. Especially when visiting Henjo-ji temples in Kyoto that possess cultural properties, it is recommended to check information on the official website or tourist association in advance.
Generally, entry to the temple grounds is often free, but reservations or admission fees may be required to view the interior of the main hall or special cultural properties.
Seasons of Annual Events
Various annual events are held at each Henjo-ji temple:
- Setsubun Festival (February): Including the Oni Horaku ceremony at Henjo-ji Temple in Gunma
- Segaki Ceremony (Spring and Autumn): Held at many Henjo-ji temples
- Sending Off the Spirits of Obon (August 16th): Lantern floating ceremony at Henjo-ji Temple in Kyoto
Visiting during these event seasons allows you to see the temple in a different light than usual.
The Connection Between Henjo-ji Temple and The Tale of Genji and Literature
Henjo-ji Temple in Kyoto is also known as a place associated with The Tale of Genji. The area around Hirosawa Pond flourished as a villa area for Heian-period aristocrats, and many locations that served as settings for the story still exist there.
Henjo Sojo himself was an excellent poet, and many of his waka poems are included in the Kokin Wakashu (Collection of Ancient and Modern Japanese Poems). The poem, “O heavenly wind, blow and close the path through the clouds, so that the maiden’s figure may linger for a while,” which was also included in the Hyakunin Isshu (One Hundred Poets, One Poem Each), remains beloved by many people today.
Tourist Attractions Around Henjo-ji Temple
Kyoto, Sagano Area
When visiting Henjo-ji Temple in Kyoto, you can also visit the surrounding tourist attractions:
- Hirosawa Pond: Beautiful scenery throughout the seasons
- Daikaku-ji Temple: A monzeki temple converted from Emperor Saga’s detached palace
- Seiryoji Temple (Saga Shakado): Houses a national treasure, a standing statue of Shakyamuni Buddha
- Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple: Features approximately 8,000 stone Buddha statues and stupas
Tokyo, Itabashi Area
Around Henjo-ji Temple in Itabashi:
- Itabashi-shuku Honjin Site: Tells the history of the Nakasendo Road
- Enkiri Enoki (Relationship-Severing Hackberry Tree): A power spot for severing relationships that has continued since the Edo period
- Itabashi City Local History Museum: A facility where you can learn about the history of the region
Historical Background and Characteristics of the Sect
Esoteric Buddhist Temples of the Heian Period
Temples founded during the Heian period, exemplified by Henjo-ji Temple in Kyoto, were established during the flourishing period of Esoteric Buddhism. During this time, the aristocracy deeply embraced Buddhism, and many temples were built. In particular, Esoteric Buddhist sects such as Shingon and Tendai flourished under the protection of the imperial court.
The Role of Temples in the Edo Period
Temples that played an important role in the Edo period, like Henjo-ji Temple in Itabashi, functioned not only as religious institutions but also as centers of local communities. They served as educational institutions (terakoya) and as resting places for travelers in post towns.
The Current State of Henjo-ji Temples
Currently, Henjo-ji temples throughout Japan are developing activities that meet the needs of the times while preserving their traditions. They play diverse roles, including cemetery and memorial park management, opening cultural properties to the public as tourist temples, and providing local history education.
Summary: The Charm of Visiting Henjo-ji Temples
Henjo-ji temples, scattered throughout Japan, each possess their own unique history and culture, supporting local faith. From ancient temples on the shores of Hirosawa Pond in Kyoto, to temples in Tokyo’s post towns, to temples in Kawasaki that operate modern cemeteries, and temples in Gunma that preserve traditional events, the forms of Henjo-ji temples are diverse.
Visiting each Henjo-ji temple will allow you to gain a deep understanding of Japanese Buddhist history, regional history, and the role of temples in modern times. Henjo-ji temples are fascinating destinations for history buffs, those interested in Buddhist art, or those seeking quiet time.
Whether you’re visiting as a tourist or considering a burial plot or interment, understanding the historical background and current state of each Henjo-ji temple will lead to a deeper experience. We encourage you to visit Henjo-ji temples throughout Japan and experience their charm for yourself.
