A Complete Guide to the History and Highlights of Togakuji Temple (Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture): Access, Memorial Services, and Perpetual Memorial Graves
Located in Ishibiki, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Togakuji Temple is a historic temple belonging to the Soto Zen sect. Founded in 1492, it boasts a history of over 530 years and is known as a temple that continues to uphold the spirit of filial piety. This article comprehensively introduces useful information for visitors, including the history of Togakuji Temple, its highlights, access methods, and information on perpetual memorial graves.
Basic Information about Togakuji Temple
Temple Name: Horinzan Togakuji Temple
Sect: Soto Zen Buddhism
Principal Image: Shakyamuni Buddha
Address: 2-4-6 Ishibiki, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture 920-0935
Phone: 076-221-2647
Chief Priest: Arita Zenryu (Arita Tairyu)
Year of Founding: Meio 1 (1492)
Founder: Daiku Genko Daiohsho
Founder: Akaza Tajima-no-kami Kageaki (Akaza family 2nd generation, Nagaaki)
Togakuji Temple belongs to the Ishikawa Prefecture Office of the Soto Zen sect and is positioned as one of the historically important temples in Kanazawa City. The temple grounds are free to visit, and visitors can worship in a peaceful environment.
History and Origin of Togakuji Temple
Founding and Origin of the Temple Name
Togakuji Temple was founded in 1492 (Meio 1). It began when Akaza Nagaaki, the second head of the Akaza family, who were lords of Nanjo District in Echizen Province (present-day Fukui Prefecture), built it in Shindo Village in the same district to commemorate his parents.
The origin of the temple’s name, “Togakuji,” is deeply significant. The founder, Akaza Nagaaki, took one character each from the posthumous names of his father, Akaza Tajima-no-kami Kageaki, and his mother to create the temple’s name. This naming reflects his deep gratitude and unwavering devotion to his parents, and the temple was built as an embodiment of filial piety. This origin continues to impress many visitors today.
Relocation and Development to Kanazawa
Tōgaku-ji Temple was founded in Echizen Province and relocated to Kanazawa in 1603 (Keichō 8). This period coincided with the establishment of the Edo Shogunate and the stable rule of the Maeda family of the Kaga Domain. After relocating to Kanazawa, the temple was given the mountain name “Hōrinzan.”
Furthermore, in 1649 (Keian 2), the temple received land in Kodatsuno from Maeda Toshitsune, the third lord of the Kaga Domain, and relocated to its current location in Ishibiki, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture. This location is close to Kanazawa Castle and situated in the cultural area surrounding Kenrokuen Garden. Since then, the temple has continued to uphold its traditions in this location for over 370 years.
Highlights and Cultural Assets of Tōgaku-ji Temple
Historical Burial Sites
Tōgaku-ji Temple’s grounds contain several burial sites of historically important figures.
The Grave of Nagahara Jinshichiro
During the turbulent Bakumatsu period, the grave of Nagahara Jinshichiro is located here, a figure associated with the Mito Tengu Party Rebellion (1864). While the Tengu Party was initially treated as “rebels,” Nagahara Jinshichiro is known for treating them respectfully as samurai. This grave site is a valuable historical site for those interested in the history of the Bakumatsu period.
The Grave of Yoshida Nagayoshi
The grave of Yoshida Nagayoshi, a physician of Dutch studies and known as a pioneer of Western medicine, is also located at Togakuji Temple. Yoshida Nagayoshi was a physician active in the late Edo period and dedicated himself to the introduction of Western medicine. His grave site is an important place to commemorate the development of modern medicine in Japan.
These grave sites demonstrate that Togakuji Temple is not merely a religious facility, but an important place that conveys the history and culture of Kanazawa.
Atmosphere and Architecture of the Temple Grounds
Despite being located in the heart of Kanazawa city, the grounds of Togakuji Temple maintain a tranquil atmosphere. Characterized by its simple yet dignified appearance, typical of a Soto Zen temple, the main hall houses a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha.
The Ishibiki area is close to Kanazawa’s cultural center, within walking distance of Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park. The area surrounding the temple retains its historical streetscape, making it a worthwhile visit as part of Kanazawa sightseeing.
Annual Events and Activities of Togakuji Temple
As a Soto Zen temple, Togakuji Temple holds various religious services and events throughout the year.
Main Annual Events
- Spring Equinox Memorial Service: Ancestor memorial services are held around the spring equinox.
- Obon Memorial Service: The Obon festival is held in August, and many parishioners attend.
- Autumn Equinox Memorial Service: Gratitude is offered to ancestors around the autumn equinox.
- Year-End and New Year: The temple bell rings on New Year’s Eve, and prayers for the new year are offered.
These events are primarily for parishioners, but general visitors are also welcome to enter the temple grounds. For detailed dates and participation information, please contact the temple directly.
Togakuji Temple’s Perpetual Memorial Graves, Tree Burials, and Columbarium
In recent years, interest in perpetual memorial graves has increased due to the declining birthrate, aging population, and changes in family structures. Togakuji Temple also accepts consultations regarding perpetual memorial services.
Types and Characteristics of Perpetual Memorial Graves
Individual Graves
This is a form of individual burial where remains are interred for a certain period. This option is suitable for those who wish to have memorial services for their family or for those who wish to have individual memorial services for a certain period. After the period ends, the remains are generally moved to a communal grave.
Communal Grave
This is a form of burial where the remains are interred together with those of other people from the beginning. It is suitable for those who wish to have perpetual memorial services while keeping costs down, and the temple will continue the memorial services indefinitely.
Costs and Visits to Perpetual Memorial Graves
The cost of a perpetual memorial grave varies depending on the type and duration of the memorial service. The general market rates are as follows, but it is recommended to check directly with the temple for details.
- Communal Grave: A relatively low-cost option
- Individual Grave: Costs vary depending on the period of interment and the size of the plot
If you wish to visit, it is recommended to contact the temple by phone (076-221-2647) in advance to schedule a date and time. The head priest or temple staff will provide a detailed explanation.
The Process of Interring Ashes at Togakuji Temple
- Consultation and Visit: First, contact the temple and make a reservation for a visit.
- Explanation and Contract: Receive an explanation of the perpetual memorial service, costs, and methods of memorial service. If you are satisfied, sign a contract.
- Schedule Interment: Determine the date for the interment ceremony.
- Interment Ceremony: The interment will be performed with chanting by a monk.
- Perpetual Memorial Service: From this point on, the temple will continue to perform memorial services responsibly.
Finding Other Affordable Cemeteries in Kanazawa City
There are many temples and cemeteries in Kanazawa City besides Togakuji Temple. By comparing costs, locations, and memorial service styles, you can make the best choice for yourself and your family. We recommend gathering information on major temples and cemeteries in Kanazawa City and visiting multiple facilities.
How to Access Togakuji Temple
Access by Public Transportation
Using Hokuriku Railway Bus
It is convenient to use the Hokuriku Railway Bus from JR Kanazawa Station.
- Take a bus bound for “Kodatsuno” from the Kanazawa Station East Exit Bus Terminal.
- Get off at the “Ishibiki” bus stop and walk for approximately 3 minutes.
- Travel time: Approximately 15 minutes
Access on Foot
- From JR Kanazawa Station: Approximately 30 minutes on foot (approximately 2.5 km)
- From Kenrokuen Garden: Approximately 10 minutes on foot
- From Kanazawa Castle Park: Approximately 15 minutes on foot
Access by Car
From the Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from Kanazawa West IC
- Approximately 15 minutes from Kanazawa East IC
Parking
There is parking space at the temple, but the number of spaces is limited, so it is recommended to check in advance. There are also coin-operated parking lots nearby.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Togakuji Temple is located close to major tourist attractions in Kanazawa.
- Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan’s three most famous gardens, approximately 10 minutes on foot
- Kanazawa Castle Park: Site of the castle of the Maeda family of the Kaga Domain, approximately 15 minutes on foot
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa: Museum of contemporary art, approximately 20 minutes on foot
- Higashi Chaya District: Traditional teahouse district, approximately 10 minutes by car
Visiting Togakuji Temple during your Kanazawa sightseeing trip will allow you to enjoy a quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas.
Togakuji Temple Facilities
Temple Grounds Facilities
- Main Hall: Houses a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha; available for memorial services and worship
- Cemetery: Family cemetery and perpetual memorial graves
- Parking: Space available for several cars (confirmation required)
Barrier-Free Accessibility
For detailed information on barrier-free accessibility within the temple grounds, it is recommended to check with the temple before your visit. The Ishibiki area has many slopes, so prior consultation is necessary if you are considering visiting in a wheelchair.
Manners for Visiting Togakuji Temple
Basic Visiting Etiquette
As a Soto Zen temple, please observe the following manners when visiting.
- Bow at the Temple Gate: Bow before entering the temple grounds.
- Respect: Be quiet within the temple grounds and avoid disturbing other visitors.
- Visiting the Main Hall: Join your hands in prayer and bow before the main hall.
- Photography: Photography is permitted within the temple grounds, but consideration for the interior of the main hall and other visitors is necessary.
- Bow Upon Exit: Turn back and bow when leaving the temple gate.
Attire
For regular visits, no special attire is required, but clean and subdued clothing is preferred. If attending a memorial service, mourning attire or clothing in subdued colors such as black or navy is appropriate.
Togakuji Temple and the Soto Zen School
About the Soto Zen School
The Soto Zen School is a branch of Japanese Zen Buddhism, founded by Zen Master Dogen and with Zen Master Keizan as its grand patriarch. It emphasizes “Shikantaza,” a practice based on simply and wholeheartedly sitting in meditation.
Relationship with the Ishikawa Prefecture Soto Zen Office
Togakuji Temple belongs to the Ishikawa Prefecture Soto Zen Office and forms part of the network of Soto Zen temples in Ishikawa Prefecture. The office coordinates communication among temples within the prefecture and promotes Buddhist culture.
The Charm and Value of Visiting Togakuji Temple
A Temple that Conveys the Spirit of Filial Piety
The most distinctive feature of Togakuji Temple lies in the origin of its name. The fact that the temple was named out of gratitude towards parents holds universal value even in modern society. Togakuji Temple holds special significance as a place to re-examine family bonds and gratitude towards parents.
A Burial Ground steeped in history
One of the charms of Togakuji Temple is that it houses the burial grounds of figures who left their mark on Japanese history, such as patriots of the late Edo period and Dutch-studying physicians. For history buffs, it offers a valuable opportunity to trace the footsteps of people not found in textbooks.
Combining with Kanazawa sightseeing
Located close to Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park, it’s easily incorporated into major Kanazawa sightseeing routes. It allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of tourist areas and quietly contemplate history.
Summary
Located in Ishibiki, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Togakuji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple founded in 1492. It boasts many points of interest, including the origin of its name, derived from filial piety, its history of over 530 years, and the burial grounds of patriots of the late Edo period and Dutch-studying physicians.
Currently, it also offers perpetual memorial graves, catering to modern needs. When sightseeing in Kanazawa, visiting Togakuji Temple along with other major tourist attractions will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Kanazawa’s history and culture.
For inquiries regarding visits to the temple or perpetual memorial services, please call us at 076-221-2647. Why not spend some peaceful time in the tranquil temple grounds, reflecting on history?
