Complete Guide to Goshōji Temple: History and Cultural Assets of the Shinshu Izumoji School Head Temple Associated with Shinran Shonin
About Goshōji Temple
Goshōji Temple is a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple located at 2-9 Shimizugashira-cho, Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, and is the head temple of the Shinshu Izumoji School. Its mountain name is Izumoji-san, and it is affectionately known locally as “Gobuichi Honzan.” This temple was founded by Shinran Shonin in Izumoji, Kyoto, in 1233 (Tenpuku 1), and is a venerable temple with a history of approximately 800 years, counted as one of the four head temples of Echizen.
The temple’s name, Gōshōji, originates from the alternative name “Gōshō” of Kakunyo Shōnin, the third head priest of Honganji Temple. It was rebuilt by Jōsen, a disciple of Kakunyo Shōnin and grandson of Shinran Shōnin, hence the name. Even today, it remains a center of faith for the Shinshu Izumoji sect, welcoming many followers and visitors.
History of Gōshōji Temple
Founding in Izumoji, Kyoto
The history of Gōshōji Temple begins in Tenpuku 1 (1233), when Shinran Shōnin founded a temple in Izumoji, located between Kami-Kamo and Shimo-Kamo in Kyoto. It is said that after completing his missionary work in the Kanto region and returning to Kyoto, Shinran Shōnin built a temple in this location and bestowed it upon the second head priest, Zenran.
Izumoji is located in the northern part of Kyoto, a quiet area along the Kamo River. Shinran Shonin spread the teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in this region and nurtured many disciples. In its early days, Goshoji Temple held an important position as a temple directly descended from Shinran Shonin.
Relocation to Echizen
During the time of the 5th head priest, Zenko Shonin, in the first year of the Ryakuō era (1338), Goshoji Temple relocated to Yamamoto-no-shō (present-day Shinmei-chō, Sabae City) near Mizuochi in Echizen Province. This relocation is believed to have been carried out due to changes in the religious and political situation in Kyoto and the need to establish a base for Jodo Shinshu propagation in the Hokuriku region.
Echizen Province was a region where Jodo Shinshu faith was very strong, with many followers. The relocation of Goshoji Temple greatly contributed to the expansion of its influence and the deepening of faith in this region.
The Echizen Ikko-ikki Rebellion and the Fires of War
During the Sengoku period (Warring States period), the Echizen Ikko-ikki rebellion broke out in Echizen Province, and Goshoji Temple was greatly affected. From 1574 to 1575, Oda Nobunaga suppressed the Ikko-ikki, and many temples suffered damage from the fighting. Goshoji Temple was no exception, and records show that it suffered significant damage during this period.
After the end of the Ikko-ikki, Jodo Shinshu temples in Echizen gradually began to recover, and Goshoji Temple, while experiencing difficult times, progressed towards restoration with the support of its followers.
Relocation to the Current Location and Development in the Edo Period
In 1596, Goshoji Temple relocated to its current location in Shimizugashira-cho, Echizen City (Gobunichi district). This relocation allowed Goshoji Temple to become deeply rooted in the community as the “Gobunichi Head Temple,” and it developed into a temple town.
During the Edo period, Goshoji Temple belonged to Shoren-in Temple of the Tendai sect as an in-ke (temple branch). It received imperial decrees designating it as a prayer temple from Emperor Komyo, Emperor Go-Kashiwabara, and Emperor Go-Yozei, demonstrating the deep trust it enjoyed from the imperial court. This indicates that Goshoji Temple was recognized not merely as a local temple, but as a temple of high status.
Throughout the Edo period, Goshoji Temple functioned as an important center of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in Echizen, growing into a large temple with many followers. The surrounding area became home to the houses of followers, forming the landscape of a temple town.
Developments after the Meiji Restoration
After the Meiji Restoration, despite the effects of the separation of Shinto and Buddhism and the anti-Buddhist movement, Goshoji Temple maintained its status as the head temple of the Shinshu Izumoji sect. In 1876 (Meiji 9), it became an independent Shinshu Izumoji sect temple, and has continued to uphold its lineage to this day.
Through the Showa and Heisei eras, and into the Reiwa era, Goshoji Temple continues to welcome many visitors as a center of local faith and as a temple associated with Shinran Shonin.
Status and Temple Crest
Iris Diamond Crest
Goshoji Temple’s crest is the “Iris Diamond.” This crest originates from Prince Hanazono-in, indicating Goshoji Temple’s deep connection with the Imperial family and court nobles. The Iris Diamond is an elegant and dignified design, and is an important element symbolizing the temple’s status.
Sixteen-Petal Chrysanthemum Crest
During the Edo period, Goshoji Temple, as a temple concurrently serving as a monzeki (a temple headed by a member of the Imperial family), was permitted to use the sixteen-petal chrysanthemum crest, the emblem of the Imperial family. Even today, traces of its high status can be seen in the eaves tiles, conveying the temple’s prestigious status. The sixteen-petal chrysanthemum crest is a symbol of the Imperial family, and its use was the highest honor for a temple.
Ruler Lines
Five lines called “ruler lines” are carved into the earthen wall of Goshoji Temple. These lines indicate the status of temples and samurai residences; the more lines, the higher the status. Five ruler lines indicate extremely high status, serving as evidence that Goshoji Temple received treatment equivalent to that of a monzeki temple (a temple headed by a member of the imperial family).
Cultural Properties and Highlights
Main Hall
The main hall of Goshoji Temple is a magnificent building that preserves the architectural style of the Edo period. Inside, the principal image, Amida Buddha, is enshrined, along with a portrait of Shinran Shonin. The architecture of the main hall is typical of Shinshu Buddhist temples, featuring a spacious inner and outer sanctuary.
The interior decorations of the hall are adorned with gold leaf and color, representing the world of Pure Land Buddhism. In particular, the carvings on the transoms and the ornaments in the inner sanctuary are valuable examples of the excellent craftsmanship of the Edo period.
Temple Gate and Grounds
The temple gate of Goshoji Temple is a magnificent structure that reflects the temple’s status. The grounds are spacious, with ancient trees lining both sides of the approach, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Buildings such as the bell tower and the priest’s quarters are arranged within the grounds, preserving the temple layout from the Edo period.
City-Designated Cultural Properties
Goshoji Temple possesses several cultural properties designated by Echizen City. These cultural properties demonstrate the temple’s long history and cultural value, and are important resources for understanding the history of the region.
Ooyori Festival
Every year, Goshoji Temple holds a traditional festival called “Ooyori.” The Ooyori is a large-scale Buddhist service held on the anniversary of Shinran Shonin’s death and other important memorial services, attracting many followers from all over Japan.
During the Ooyori, many worshippers visit the temple grounds, and services and sermons are held. Stalls line the surrounding area, and the entire region is enveloped in a festive atmosphere. This festival is an important annual event in the Gobuichi district and is cherished by the local people.
The specific dates of the Ooyori vary from year to year, so those planning to visit are advised to check the official website or call Goshoji Temple in advance.
The Temple’s Relationship with the Community as the Gobuichi Head Temple
The Gobuichi district, where Goshoji Temple is located, has a history as a temple town that developed around the temple. There are various theories about the origin of the place name “Gobuichi,” but it is thought to be related to the fact that a market was held there and to historical circumstances concerning land distribution.
The local people have called Goshoji Temple “Gobuichi Head Temple” and cherished it as the center of their faith. The temple and local residents share a strong bond, with many residents cooperating in the operation of festivals and memorial services.
Even today, the area around Goshoji Temple retains traces of its old townscape, allowing visitors to experience the historical landscape of a temple town. A stroll through the area will allow you to savor the atmosphere of the temple town in its heyday.
Positioning as one of the Four Main Temples of Echizen
While Echizen Province boasts many important Jodo Shinshu temples, four temples known as the “Four Main Temples of Echizen” are particularly well-known. Goshoji Temple is one of them; the other three are Choshoji, Shojoji, and Honkakuji.
Each of these temples possesses a distinct history and characteristics, yet they have all greatly contributed to the development of Jodo Shinshu in Echizen. Goshoji Temple, as the head temple of the Shinshu Izumoji sect, maintains its own unique lineage and has a different historical background from the other three temples.
When visiting Echizen, a “pilgrimage to the four main temples” would be a fascinating experience. By comparing the unique characteristics and history of each temple, you can understand the diversity and depth of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in Echizen.
Connection with Shinran Shonin
Goshoji Temple was directly founded by Shinran Shonin and has a deep connection to him. Shinran Shonin (1173-1263) is a figure who holds an important position in the history of Japanese Buddhism as the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, and he preached the doctrine of salvation through the recitation of the Nembutsu, “Namu Amida Butsu.”
After his missionary work in the Kanto region, Shinran Shonin returned to Kyoto and spent his later years there. Goshoji Temple was founded during that period and became an important center where his direct disciples gathered. The second head priest, Zenran, is considered to be the biological son of Shinran Shonin, and the fact that he received the temple directly from the saint is an important fact demonstrating the legitimacy of Goshoji Temple.
Even today, Goshoji Temple upholds the teachings of Shinran Shonin, and daily services are performed with an image of the saint enshrined there. As a temple associated with Shinran Shonin, it is an important pilgrimage site for many Shinshu followers.
About the Shinshu Izumoji School
The Shinshu Izumoji School is a branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, with Goshoji Temple as its head temple. While inheriting the teachings of Shinran Shonin, it possesses its own unique history and traditions.
Jodo Shinshu Buddhism has many branches, such as the Honganji School (Nishi Honganji) and the Shinshu Otani School (Higashi Honganji), each inheriting the teachings of Shinran Shonin, but branching out due to historical circumstances. The Shinshu Izumoji sect is a relatively small sect, but its legitimacy and historical value are very high because its head temple is a temple directly founded by Shinran Shonin.
The doctrines of the Shinshu Izumoji sect are based on Shinran Shonin’s teachings of salvation through the power of Amida Buddha’s vow, salvation for the wicked, and rebirth through chanting the Buddha’s name, emphasizing faith in salvation through the power of Amida Buddha’s original vow.
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours and Admission Fees
Goshoji Temple is generally a temple that can be visited freely. Entry to the temple grounds is possible during the daytime, but if you wish to view the interior of the main hall, it is recommended to contact the temple in advance. There is no admission fee for regular visits, but confirmation is required for special viewings.
Access Information
Access by Train
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from JR Hokuriku Main Line “Takefu Station”
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Fukui Railway “Echizen-Takefu Station”
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from Hokuriku Expressway “Takefu Interchange”
- Accessible from National Route 8
Access by Bus
- Take the Fukui Railway bus “Ajimano Line” from Takefu Station and get off at the nearest bus stop
Parking
Goshoji Temple has a parking lot for visitors. Temporary parking is also provided during large-scale Buddhist ceremonies, but congestion is expected, so we recommend considering using public transportation.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 2-9 Shimizugashira-cho, Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture 915-0242
Phone: 0778-27-0012
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Goshoji Temple, we recommend also visiting the nearby tourist attractions.
Ajimano Area
The Ajimano area, where Goshoji Temple is located, is a historical region mentioned in the Manyoshu (an ancient collection of Japanese poetry). It is also known as a place associated with Emperor Keitai, and Takefu Central Park, the venue for the “Takefu Chrysanthemum Doll Festival” in spring, is nearby.
Murasaki Shikibu Park
Echizen City is said to be the place where Murasaki Shikibu spent her youth, and you can feel the atmosphere of the Heian period at Murasaki Shikibu Park.
Echizen Cutlery Village
Echizen City is one of Japan’s leading production areas for cutlery, and you can observe traditional craftsmanship at the Cutlery Museum.
Tansu-machi Street
Echizen City is famous as a production center for chests of drawers, and there is an area lined with shops selling traditional crafts.
Annual Events
Goshoji Temple holds various Buddhist services and events throughout the year.
Shushō-e (January)
A Buddhist service to welcome the new year and pray for peace throughout the year.
Spring Equinox Service (March)
A Buddhist service to commemorate ancestors is held during the spring equinox.
Birth Day Service (May)
A Buddhist service to celebrate the birth of Shinran Shonin.
Obon Festival (August)
A Buddhist service to welcome the spirits of ancestors during the Obon period.
Autumn Equinox Service (September)
A service to commemorate ancestors is held during the autumn equinox.
Ho-on-ko (November)
This is the most important memorial service commemorating the anniversary of Shinran Shonin’s death.
Joya-e (December 31st)
At the end of the year, the temple bell is rung to prepare for the New Year.
For detailed dates and content of these events, we recommend checking the official website or calling Goshoji Temple.
Regarding Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds, but there may be restrictions on photography inside the main hall or of Buddhist statues. If you wish to take photographs, we recommend obtaining permission from the temple in advance. It is also important to observe proper etiquette during visits, such as refraining from taking photographs during memorial services.
Summary
Goshoji Temple is a historic temple founded by Shinran Shonin and is the head temple of the Shinshu Izumoji sect, with a history of nearly 800 years. From its founding in Izumo-ji, Kyoto, to its relocation to Echizen, and its eventful history through periods of war and turmoil before settling in its current location, Goshoji Temple’s turbulent history tells a part of Japan’s religious history.
Rooted in the region as the Gobuichi head temple and one of the four main temples of Echizen, Goshoji Temple has contributed to the development of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. More than just a historical building, it functions as a living place of faith. Many elements indicating the temple’s status remain, such as the iris rhombus crest, the sixteen-petal chrysanthemum emblem, and the ruler-like markings, conveying its former glory to visitors.
When visiting Echizen City in Fukui Prefecture, we highly recommend stopping by Goshoji Temple to reflect on the teachings of Shinran Shonin and its long history. In its tranquil grounds, you can find peace of mind and connect with the spirit of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern society.
Differences from Goshōji Temple in Takarazuka City
A search reveals that there is another temple named “Goshōji” in Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture. The Goshōji Temple in Takarazuka City is a Jōdo Shinshū Honganji-ha temple, also known as “Obama Gobō,” and was the center of Obama, which developed as a temple town.
Both temples share the name “Goshōji” and belong to the Jōdo Shinshū sect, but they belong to different denominations (Echizen City is Shinshū Izumoji-ha, Takarazuka City is Honganji-ha). Furthermore, their founding circumstances and historical backgrounds differ, so it is necessary to understand them as separate temples.
This article deals with Goshōji Temple in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture (the head temple of the Shinshū Izumoji-ha), so please be careful not to confuse the locations when visiting.
Manners for Visiting Temples
When visiting a temple, it is important to observe the following manners:
- Attire: Modest, understated clothing is preferable. 2. Greetings: Bow when passing through the temple gate.
- Quietness: Act quietly within the temple grounds and refrain from loud conversations.
- Photography: Check which areas are permitted for photography and refrain from photographing the interior of the main hall or other areas without permission.
- Offerings: When offering money in front of the main hall, do so quietly and respectfully.
- Gassho (palms together in prayer): In Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, the basic gesture is to bring both hands together in front of the chest.
By observing these manners, you can show consideration for other visitors and temple staff.
Gōshōji Temple, as an important temple associated with Shinran Shonin, will continue to attract the faith of many people and pass on its history and traditions to future generations. When visiting the Echizen region, please be sure to visit this historic temple and experience the depth of Japanese religious culture.
