Complete Guide to Ekoji Temple (Hokkaido) | Detailed Explanation of the Characteristics, Funerals, and Perpetual Memorial Graves of a Koyasan Shingon Sect Temple
Ekoji Temple, located in Shinkotoni, Kita-ku, Sapporo City, is a Koyasan Shingon sect temple established in 2014. Based on the philosophy of “We want to be a temple for the living,” the head priest, Reverend Ryugen Adachi, manages the temple in a way that is in tune with modern society. This article provides a detailed explanation of Ekoji Temple’s history and characteristics, funeral and memorial service services, perpetual memorial graves at Fujino Seizanen in Minami-ku, Sapporo City, information on recruiting parishioners, and access methods.
Basic Information and History of Ekoji Temple
Overview of Entsuzan Ekoji Temple
Ekoji Temple is a temple of Entsuzan, belonging to the Koyasan Shingon sect. Located in the easily accessible area of Shinkotoni 1-jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo, it offers convenient access for local residents.
Basic Information:
- Sect: Koyasan Shingon Buddhism
- Mountain Name: Entsuzan
- Location: Shinkotoni 1-jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo
- Established: 2014
- Chief Priest: Adachi Ryugen
About Chief Priest Adachi Ryugen
Chief Priest Adachi Ryugen of Eikoji Temple is a highly regarded monk known for his “very pleasant smile.” He established Eikoji Temple in 2014 and continues to work towards redefining the role of temples in modern society.
Chief Priest Adachi works under the theme of “What does it mean to be close to people as a monk?” and aims to be a source of emotional support for living people, not just through ceremonies such as funerals and memorial services. We carefully respond to consultations with parishioners and local residents, and practice temple management that is suited to the modern era.
The Philosophy and Characteristics of Keikoji Temple
“We want to be a temple for the living”
The most significant characteristic of Keikoji Temple is its philosophy: “We want to be a temple for the living.” While many temples focus on memorial services for the deceased, Keikoji Temple emphasizes caring for the emotional well-being of living people and supporting them with their daily worries.
This philosophy aims for the temple to be a spiritual haven for people facing various challenges in modern society, such as loneliness, anxiety, and family relationship problems. It functions as a place where people can find peace of mind through consultations and dialogues with the head priest.
The Attitude of “Let’s Cry When We’re Sad”
At Keikoji Temple, as symbolized by the phrase “Let’s cry when we’re sad,” we value expressing emotions naturally rather than suppressing them. At funerals and memorial services, it is not shameful for bereaved families to grieve deeply and shed tears at the loss of their loved one; rather, we believe it is an important process of healing.
This attitude leads to funerals and memorial services that go beyond mere formalities and instead focus on the emotional connection of each attendee.
Funerals are More Than Ceremonies
At Keikoji Temple, we believe that “funerals are more than just ceremonies,” and we emphasize the essential meaning of the ritual of sending off the deceased. Rather than grand altars or extravagant displays, we prioritize expressing gratitude to the deceased and providing emotional support to the bereaved family.
A funeral is a precious occasion where the deceased, the bereaved family, and attendees share their final moments together. At Keikoji Temple funerals, the head priest listens attentively to the family’s stories, carefully listening to the deceased’s life and memories, before offering heartfelt chanting and sermons.
Funeral Services at Keikoji Temple
Funerals for Temple Members
Keikoji Temple is currently accepting new temple members. Becoming a member allows you to hold funerals at the temple. For temple members, the head priest takes full responsibility from start to finish, and funerals can be conducted in a format tailored to the family’s wishes, from intimate family funerals to more formal services.
Features of Funerals for Temple Members:
- Thorough pre-funeral consultation by the head priest
- Consistent support from the placement of the deceased to the scheduling of the funeral
- Chanting and sermons that are sensitive to the feelings of the bereaved family
- Ongoing support for memorial services and ancestral worship after the funeral
Funeral Process and Costs
Funerals at Keikoji Temple begin with contact and a phone consultation from the bereaved family. The head priest meets with the family, carefully listening to the deceased’s personality and the family’s wishes, before determining the funeral date and details.
Basic Funeral Procedure:
- Contact and Consultation: The bereaved family contacts Keikoji Temple by phone.
- Placement of the Deceased: Securing a place for the deceased’s body to rest.
- Schedule Adjustment: Deciding on the date and format of the funeral.
- Wake and Funeral: Chanting of sutras, sermon, and incense offering.
- Cremation and Interment: Accompanying the family to the crematorium and arranging the interment.
Regarding costs, they vary depending on the scale and content of the funeral, but Keikoji Temple can accommodate services starting from several hundred thousand yen. For specific amounts, you can consult with the head priest in advance to receive a proposal that fits the bereaved family’s budget.
Family Funeral and General Funeral Services
In recent years, there has been an increase in people requesting family funerals attended only by family and close friends. Keikoji Temple accommodates a wide range of formats, from small family funerals to general funerals with many attendees.
Even in the case of a family funeral, the head priest will sincerely engage with the deceased and the bereaved family, conducting a heartfelt funeral service. Regardless of the number of attendees, we aim to provide a funeral that leaves a lasting impression on each and every person.
Memorial Services and Annual Events at Keikoji Temple
Memorial Services and Ancestor Worship
Keikoji Temple holds memorial services such as the 49th-day memorial service, the first anniversary, and the third anniversary. These services are important occasions for praying for the repose of the deceased and for the bereaved family to remember them. The head priest flexibly accommodates the circumstances of the bereaved family, offering services at home or at the temple.
Regarding ancestor worship, we hold joint memorial services during the O-Higan and O-Bon periods, which are open not only to temple parishioners but also to members of the local community.
Monthly Events and Prayers
Keikoji Temple holds regular monthly events. Through monthly Goma prayers, sutra copying sessions, and Dharma talks, we provide opportunities for parishioners and members of the community to experience Buddhism.
Main Annual Events:
- New Year’s First Shrine Visit and First Goma Ceremony: Prayers for good health and protection from illness in the new year
- Spring and Autumn Equinox Memorial Services: Joint memorial services for ancestors
- Obon Memorial Service: Memorial services for the spirits of ancestors
- Monthly Goma Prayer: Prayers for family safety, business prosperity, etc.
Regarding prayers, individual wishes (family safety, traffic safety, academic success, recovery from illness, etc.) can be accommodated. By consulting with the head priest in advance, you can receive prayers tailored to your wishes.
Perpetual Memorial Grave at Fujino Seizanen
Features of the Keikoji Joint Memorial Grave
In July 2019, the Keikoji Joint Memorial Grave was established within Fujino Seizanen in Minami-ku, Sapporo City. This perpetual memorial grave is a new form of memorial service for those without heirs or those who do not want to burden their families.
Features of the Keikoji Temple Joint Memorial Grave:
- No Annual Fees or Maintenance Fees: Perpetual memorial services for a one-time fee
- No Religious Affiliation or Sect Restrictions: Available to anyone
- Regular Memorial Services by the Keikoji Temple Chief Priest: Joint memorial services are held during the equinox and Obon festivals
- Rich Natural Environment: A quiet and beautiful environment in Minami-ku, Sapporo City
Costs and Application Methods for Perpetual Memorial Graves
The perpetual memorial graves at Keikoji Temple are more affordable compared to typical cemeteries. There are no annual fees or maintenance costs, eliminating future financial burdens.
Costs start from several hundred thousand yen. For specific amounts and details regarding interment methods, please contact Keikoji Temple directly. Applications can be made by phone or in person at the temple.
Access to Fujino Seizanen
Fujino Seizanen is located in Minami-ku, Sapporo City, and is characterized by its rich natural environment and tranquil surroundings. Regarding transportation access, visiting by private car is convenient, but if using public transport, it is accessible on foot from the nearest bus stop.
For detailed access information and parking availability, please contact Keikoji Temple.
About Recruiting Temple Members
Benefits of Becoming a Temple Member
Keikoji Temple is currently recruiting temple members. Becoming a temple member offers the following benefits:
Benefits of Being a Temple Member:
- Funerals at the Temple are Possible: The head priest will take responsibility for conducting the funeral.
- Support for Memorial Services and Ancestor Worship: You can request memorial services such as the 49th day and first anniversary.
- Participation in Annual Events: You can participate in joint memorial services such as O-higan and Obon.
- Consultation with the Head Priest: You can consult with the head priest about life’s worries and matters related to Buddhist rituals.
- Priority Use of Perpetual Memorial Graves: You can use the perpetual memorial graves at Fujino Seizanen.
How to Become a Temple Member and Costs
To become a temple member, first contact Keikoji Temple and have an interview with the head priest. During the interview, you will receive an explanation of the role of a temple member, costs, and annual events.
Temporary fees (maintenance fees) vary depending on the temple, but Keikoji Temple has set fees considering the burden on temple members. Specific amounts and payment methods will be decided in consultation with the head priest.
Services Available Even Without Becoming a Temple Member
At Keikoji Temple, you can request funeral and memorial services even if you are not a temple member. Furthermore, the perpetual memorial grave at Fujino Seizanen is available regardless of religious affiliation or sect. First, please consult by phone to choose the service that best suits your situation.
Access Information to Keikoji Temple
Location and Transportation Access
Keikoji Temple is located at Shinkotoni 1-jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo City, and is easily accessible by public transport.
Access Methods:
- Subway: Walk or take a bus from Aso Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway Namboku Line
- Bus: A few minutes’ walk from the nearest bus stop (Chuo Bus/JR Hokkaido Bus)
- Private Car: Parking available (limited spaces; advance notice recommended for memorial services)
For detailed address and map information, please check the official Keikoji Temple website or inquire by phone.
Surrounding Environment and Facilities
The Shinkotoni area is a developed residential area, offering a quiet and peaceful environment. The area surrounding the temple has commercial facilities and medical institutions, making it a very convenient place to live.
The buildings of Keikoji Temple are beautifully maintained, and the main hall and guest hall are clean and serene, allowing for peaceful and tranquil ceremonies.
How to Contact Keikoji Temple
Telephone Consultation
For any inquiries regarding Keikoji Temple, including funerals, memorial services, perpetual memorial graves, and membership recruitment, contacting us by phone is the most convenient option. The head priest or temple staff will respond courteously.
Even in the case of a sudden funeral, we provide a 24-hour contact number, so you can consult with us with peace of mind.
In-Person Consultation
After a telephone consultation, you can also visit the temple and meet with the head priest. Visiting the temple is recommended to check the atmosphere of the temple and discuss the specific details of funerals and memorial services.
By scheduling an appointment by phone in advance, the head priest will allocate sufficient time for your consultation.
Gathering Information Online
The official website of Keikoji Temple contains information about the temple’s philosophy, an introduction to the head priest, announcements of annual events, and access information. Since the latest topics and announcements are updated regularly, it is recommended to check it periodically.
Summary: Keikoji Temple is a Temple that Resonates with Modern Times
Although Keikoji Temple is a relatively new temple, established in 2014, it has grown into a trusted temple for the local community, based on its clear philosophy of “wanting to be a temple for living people.”
The head priest, Reverend Ryugen Adachi, not only conducts ceremonies such as funerals and memorial services, but also provides support for everyday worries and anxieties, practicing a new role for temples in modern society. His attitude of prioritizing the heart over form, as symbolized by phrases such as “Funerals are not just ceremonies” and “Let’s cry when we are sad,” has attracted attention from many people.
Located in Shinkotoni, Kita-ku, Sapporo City, it is easily accessible and conveniently located. Furthermore, in 2019, a permanent memorial grave was established at Fujino Seizanen in Minami-ku, Sapporo City, offering a new option for those without heirs or those who wish to avoid burdening their families.
We are also recruiting temple members. If you wish to hold a funeral at a temple, or desire regular memorial services or ancestral worship, please feel free to contact Keikoji Temple. Even those who are not temple members can utilize funeral services, memorial services, and the permanent memorial grave.
Keikoji Temple aims to be a modern temple that not only provides memorial services for the deceased but also offers emotional support to those who are still alive. As a temple where the head priest, temple members, and local community walk together through various life events such as funerals, memorial services, ancestral worship, prayers, and the permanent memorial grave, we will continue to develop.
If you have any problems or questions, please feel free to contact us by phone. The head priest’s smile and warm response will surely soothe your heart.
