Hokkaiji Temple (Sapporo, Hokkaido) Complete Guide | History, Access, Columbarium, and Perpetual Memorial Service Details
Located in Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Hokkaiji Temple is a Nichiren Buddhist temple with a long history. Currently, it is a modern temple equipped with a columbarium and perpetual memorial graves, and is used by many people. This article comprehensively introduces information useful for those considering a visit, from the history of Hokkaiji Temple to the features of its facilities, access methods, and details of the columbarium “Jakkoden.”
Basic Information about Hokkaiji Temple
Location and Access
Hokkaiji Temple is located in the central area of Sapporo, between Odori and the Toyohira River, in a district where many temples and shrines are concentrated.
Address: 4-1, Minami 3-jo Higashi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0053, Japan
Telephone Number: 011-231-8809 (Main) / 0120-72-7676 (Toll-free)
FAX: 011-231-9987
Detailed Access Information
Public transportation is the most convenient way to access Hokkaiji Temple.
Access by Subway:
- Approximately 5-10 minutes on foot from Exit 7 of Bus Center-mae Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway Tozai Line.
- Head south from the station towards Minami 3-jo Higashi 4-chome.
Access by Bus:
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Sapporo Bus Center Terminal.
- If using various bus routes, the nearest bus stop is within walking distance.
Access by Car:
- Approximately 5-10 minutes by car from downtown Sapporo.
- Please inquire with the temple in advance regarding parking availability.
History and Background of Hokkai-ji Temple
Founder and Patron
Hokkai-ji Temple, as a temple of the Nichiren sect, has the following history:
Founder: Shodoin Nichioku Shonin
Patron: Myokaiin Nichigoku Shonin
Established as a place of worship in Sapporo during the Hokkaido pioneering era, it has functioned as a spiritual center for the local people. Based on the teachings of the Nichiren sect, it has a history of supporting many parishioners and believers. ### Past Chief Priests and Current System
Currently, Hokkaiji Temple is headed by the 6th chief priest, Reverend Kanju Hasegawa, who manages the temple while preserving tradition and meeting modern needs.
Construction of the Priest’s Quarters and Main Hall
Throughout its long history, Hokkaiji Temple has repeatedly constructed and renovated its priest’s quarters and main hall. The current facilities have been renovated to have a new, bright atmosphere, creating an open space for visitors.
Features and Highlights of Hokkaiji Temple
Impressive Red Bell Tower
The first thing visitors to Hokkaiji Temple will notice is its distinctive red bell tower. This bell tower is a landmark visible from afar and symbolizes the overall atmosphere of the temple.
The red-based architectural style combines the solemnity and warmth characteristic of Nichiren Buddhist temples, giving it a particularly striking presence even within Sapporo’s temple district.
Atmosphere of the Temple Grounds
Despite its location in the heart of Sapporo, the temple grounds maintain a tranquil atmosphere. With other temples and shrines scattered throughout the surrounding area, it possesses a unique charm as a religious space within the city.
Throughout the grounds, red is the dominant color in the design, creating a beautiful and unified landscape.
Renovation and Modernization of Facilities
While preserving its traditions, Hokkai-ji Temple has undergone renovations to meet modern needs. The newly renovated, bright facilities make it accessible not only to traditional parishioners but also to those seeking perpetual memorial services or columbariums.
About the Columbarium “Jakkoden”
Overview of Jakkoden
Jakkoden, the columbarium offered by Hokkai-ji Temple, is an indoor columbarium designed to suit modern lifestyles. It is attracting attention as an ideal option for those without heirs to their family graves or those who wish to reduce the burden of management.
Facility Type: Indoor Columbarium
Supported Sects: All sects welcome (including those of the Nichiren sect)
Features: Perpetual memorial service included, luxurious columbarium niches
Types and Sections of Columbarium Niches
Jakkoden offers several types of columbarium niches depending on the number of remains that can be interred.
Types of Sections:
- Individual Columbarium Niches
- Couple Columbarium Niches
- Family Columbarium Niches (accommodates multiple sets of remains)
- Large Columbarium Niches (accommodates remains of generations)
Each columbarium niche features a luxurious finish, providing a space where bereaved families can respectfully pay their respects to the deceased and visit in peace.
Benefits of Using Jakkoden
Weather-Free Visitation:
As it is an indoor facility, you can visit comfortably even on rainy or snowy days. Especially during the harsh winters of Hokkaido, you can face your loved ones in a heated indoor environment.
Excellent Accessibility: Located just a 5-minute walk from the Subway Bus Center Station, this location is a significant advantage for elderly visitors and those traveling from afar.
Clean and Well-Maintained Environment: The temple staff performs daily cleaning and maintenance, ensuring a consistently clean environment.
About Perpetual Memorial Services
How Perpetual Memorial Services Work
Hokkaiji Temple’s perpetual memorial service system ensures that even if there are no successors to the grave, the temple and successive head priests will provide perpetual memorial services.
Features of Perpetual Memorial Services:
- The temple takes responsibility for continuing memorial services
- Plans with no annual maintenance fees are available
- Available regardless of religious affiliation
- Memorial services continue in the communal grave after the individual memorial service period ends
Types of Perpetual Memorial Graves
Hokkaiji Temple offers several perpetual memorial service plans to meet various needs.
Individual Perpetual Memorial Grave:
This type involves individual memorial services for a set period (e.g., 13th anniversary, 33rd anniversary), after which the remains are transferred to a communal grave.
Communal Perpetual Memorial Grave:
This type involves memorial services with other remains from the beginning, suitable for those who wish to minimize costs.
Benefits of Perpetual Memorial Services
No Successor Required:
Even without someone to maintain the grave, the temple will continue the memorial services responsibly.
Reduced Financial Burden:
Compared to traditional graves, initial and maintenance costs are lower.
Open to All Sects:
Available to people of all sects, including those of the Nichiren sect, catering to a wide range of needs.
Funeral and Memorial Service Services
Integrated Service from Funeral to Memorial Service
Hokkaiji Temple offers a one-stop service where funerals, memorial services, and grave visits can all be handled in one location.
Available Services:
- Wake, funeral, and memorial service
- Memorial services (e.g., first seven days, forty-ninth day)
- Annual memorial services (e.g., first anniversary, third anniversary)
- Joint memorial services during Obon and Higan
- Daily grave visits
Reservations and Consultations
Reservations for funerals and memorial services, as well as consultations regarding columbariums and perpetual memorial services, are by appointment only.
How to Make a Reservation:
- Phone: 011-231-8809 or 0120-72-7676
- Home visits are also available (reservations required)
By consulting in advance, you can receive detailed explanations regarding cost estimates and specific plans.
Environment around Hokkaiji Temple
Area with Many Temples and Shrines
The Minami 3-jo Higashi area of Chuo-ku, Sapporo, where Hokkaiji Temple is located, is known as an area with many temples and shrines. This area is a place where you can feel the history and culture of Sapporo and is suitable for strolling.
Nearby Attractions
Sapporo Bus Center: Within walking distance, offering shopping and dining options.
Toyohira River: Within walking distance, with a nature-filled walking path.
Odori Park: A few subway stops away, providing excellent access to Sapporo’s city center.
For Those Considering Using Hokkaiji Temple
Recommended for:
Hokkaiji Temple’s columbarium and perpetual memorial services are especially recommended for the following people:
- Those without successors to their family grave
- Those seeking a columbarium facility with good access in central Sapporo
- Those who want to visit regardless of the weather
- Those who wish to receive memorial services at a traditional temple
- Those seeking a facility usable regardless of religious sect
- Those who want to entrust everything from funeral services to memorial services to one provider
Flow of Visits and Consultations
Step 1: Advance Reservation: Make a reservation for a visit by phone or toll-free number.
Step 2: Facility Visit: You can actually visit the Jakkoden Hall and the temple grounds to get a feel for the atmosphere. Step 3: Detailed Explanation
You will receive an explanation of the plan details and costs from the head priest or staff.
Step 4: Contract
You can proceed with the contract once you are satisfied.
About Costs
The cost of the columbarium and perpetual memorial service varies depending on the plan and plot you choose. For detailed costs, we recommend contacting the temple directly.
Generally, costs vary depending on the following factors:
- Size of the columbarium niche (number of remains that can be interred)
- Duration of individual memorial service
- Whether or not there is an annual management fee
- Additional optional services
About Hokkai-ji Temple and the Nichiren Sect
Teachings of the Nichiren Sect
The Nichiren Sect, to which Hokkai-ji Temple belongs, is a Buddhist sect founded by Nichiren Shonin. It is characterized by a faith centered on chanting the mantra “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo.”
Characteristics of the Nichiren Buddhism:
- The Lotus Sutra is the fundamental scripture
- Emphasizes the title “Nam Myoho Renge Kyo”
- Preaches worldly benefits and salvation in the next life
- Active missionary work
Non-denominational stance
Hokkaiji Temple maintains a non-denominational stance regarding its ossuary and perpetual memorial services. This is a consideration to meet modern needs and allow more people to utilize the temple.
Even those of other denominations can use the temple with peace of mind.
Hokkaiji Temple’s position in Hokkaido
As a temple in the heart of Sapporo
Sapporo is the central city of Hokkaido, and while many temples exist there, Hokkaiji Temple has established a unique position due to its excellent central location and its combination of tradition and modernity.
A cemetery where many people from Hokkaido rest
Many people from all over Hokkaido rest in Hokkaiji Temple’s Jakkoden Hall and perpetual memorial graves. Due to its easy access and high level of trust, it attracts visitors from all over Hokkaido.
Notes and Etiquette for Visitors
Etiquette for Worship
When visiting a temple, please observe the following etiquette:
- Worship quietly
- Put your mobile phone on silent mode on the temple grounds
- Obtain permission before taking photographs
- Dress in clean and understated attire
- Smoking is permitted only in designated areas
Suitable Time for Visits
Advance reservations are recommended for viewings and consultations regarding the ossuary. While daytime hours are generally suitable for general worship, please contact the temple for detailed opening hours.
Summary
Hokkaiji Temple, located in Chuo-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido, is a traditional Nichiren Buddhist temple that also features facilities that meet modern needs, such as the “Jakkoden” ossuary and perpetual memorial graves.
Main Features of Hokkaiji Temple:
- Convenient location, 5-10 minute walk from Bus Center-mae Subway Station
- Impressive red bell tower is its symbol
- Indoor columbarium “Jakkoden” allows for visits regardless of weather
- Perpetual memorial services available regardless of sect, eliminating the need for successors
- Comprehensive service from funeral to memorial service
- Newly renovated facilities with a bright atmosphere
With excellent access in the heart of Sapporo and combining tradition and modernity, Hokkaiji Temple is a strong option for those seeking a grave or columbarium. Visits and consultations are by appointment only, so we recommend contacting us by phone first if you are interested.
If you are looking for a trustworthy temple in Hokkaido, or are considering perpetual memorial services or a columbarium, please visit Hokkaiji Temple. The warmth of a historic temple and the convenience of modern facilities will provide an environment where you can respectfully pay your respects to your loved ones and visit with peace of mind.
