Insokuji Temple Complete Guide | History, Highlights, Access, and Annual Events: A Thorough Explanation
Insokuji Temple is a Shinshu Otani sect temple located in Higashisuna, Koto Ward, Tokyo. With a history of over 400 years, it is a venerable temple dating back to the Edo period and cherished by the local community. This article provides a detailed explanation of Insokuji Temple’s history, highlights within its grounds, annual events, and access information—everything you need to know before visiting.
Basic Information about Insokuji Temple
Official Name: Daigosan Koshōin Insokuji Temple
Sect: Shinshu Otani School (Higashi Honganji School)
Location: 1-4-10 Higashisuna, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Principal Image: Standing statue of Amida Buddha
Founder: Shakujōgen Hōshi
Established: Genna 9 (1623)
Insokuji Temple is a Jodo Shinshu temple belonging to the Shinshu Otani School. As a temple that transmits the teachings of Shinran Shonin, it has continued to uphold the Dharma lineage from the early Edo period to the present day.
History and Changes of Insokuji Temple
History of Establishment and Relocation in the Edo Period
The history of Insokuji Temple dates back to the Genna era (1615-1624) in the early Edo period. In 1623 (Genna 9), a temple was built in Edo’s Kyobashi Takemachi (near present-day Kyobashi, Chuo Ward, Tokyo) by the monk Shakujō Genbōshi. It received the temple name “Kōshōin Daigozan Insokuji” from the 13th head priest of Honganji Temple, Sennyo Shōnin, and was officially recognized as a temple.
Shortly after its founding, in 1625 (Kanei 2), Insokuji Temple relocated to Edo’s Kobikichō Hatchōbori (near present-day Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo). However, it was damaged by fire during the Great Fire of Edo, and subsequently moved its base to Fukagawa Kuroemachi (near present-day Eitai 2-chome, Koto Ward). This area, also known as Fukagawa Fukuzumicho, served as the main base of Insokuji Temple throughout the Edo period.
The Great Kanto Earthquake and Relocation to the Current Location
On September 1, 1923 (Taisho 12), the Great Kanto Earthquake struck, and Insokuji Temple was destroyed by fire. This unprecedented disaster resulted in the loss of many temple buildings, but thanks to the efforts of the 10th head priest, Shakujōin, it was rebuilt in 1927 (Showa 2) at its current location in Higashisuna 1-chome, Koto Ward.
With this relocation, Insoku-ji Temple began to carve a new history in Higashisuna, a place that still retains the atmosphere of old Tokyo. The current main hall was built after the Showa era and is a relatively new building, but the 400-year lineage of the temple is certainly being carried on.
From Kyobashi to Higashisuna: A Chronicle of Relocation
The history of Insoku-ji Temple’s relocations can be summarized as follows:
- Genna 9 (1623): Founded in Kyobashi Takemachi
- Kanei 2 (around 1625): Relocated to Kobikicho Hatchobori
- Mid-Edo Period: Relocated to Fukagawa Kuroemachi (Fukuzumicho)
- Showa 2 (1927): Relocated to its current location in Higashisuna after the Great Kanto Earthquake
These repeated relocations are closely intertwined with the history of the urban development of Edo/Tokyo, and the history of Insoku-ji Temple can be said to be the history of Tokyo itself.
Highlights and Cultural Assets of Insoku-ji Temple
Principal Image: Wooden Standing Amida Buddha Statue
The principal image of Insoku-ji Temple is a wooden standing Amida Buddha statue. Next to the temple gate, there is an explanatory plaque with a photograph detailing the principal image of worship, allowing visitors to learn about its origins and characteristics beforehand. As a temple of the Shinshu Otani sect, it enshrines Amida Buddha as its principal image and continues to uphold the teachings of Shinran Shonin, who preached rebirth in paradise through chanting the Buddha’s name.
The Grave of Yotsuguruma Daihachi
Within the grounds of Insoku-ji Temple lies the grave of Yotsuguruma Daihachi, a sumo wrestler from the Edo period. Born in Akita Prefecture, Yotsuguruma Daihachi reached the highest rank of Maegashira 3, but became widely known through plays and storytelling as a participant in the “Me-gumi Brawl” of 1805.
The “Me-gumi Brawl” was a large-scale brawl between the Edo town fire brigade “Me-gumi” and sumo wrestlers, which became a major topic of conversation among the common people of Edo. Yotsuguruma Daihachi died in April 1809 at the young age of 38 and was buried at Insoku-ji Temple, which was then located in Fukuzumi-cho, Fukagawa.
This grave is a valuable historical site for understanding Edo culture and is an important spot visited by sumo fans and history enthusiasts.
Grave of Matsumoto Kyushiro (Koto Ward Designated Historic Site)
Another important cultural property at Insoku-ji Temple is the grave of Matsumoto Kyushiro. This grave is a Koto Ward designated historical site and commemorates an important figure in the history of Edo agriculture.
Matsumoto Kyushiro was a farmer who established accelerated vegetable cultivation techniques in Sunamura (present-day Minami-Suna and Higashi-Suna areas of Koto Ward) during the late Edo period. By using hotbeds for accelerated cultivation, he made it possible to provide fresh vegetables to the people of Edo even in winter. He is particularly known for his early cultivation of eggplants and cucumbers, and his “Sunamura Accelerated Cultivation” had a significant impact on Edo’s food culture.
Interestingly, while Matsumoto Kyushiro’s first harvest of vegetables was permitted to be presented to the Shogun’s family, records show that it was subject to Edo’s luxury ban, and its sale to the general public was restricted. This anecdote illustrates the social conditions of the time, where “vegetables may seem insignificant, but they are more than that.”
Atmosphere and Architecture of the Temple Grounds
Insoku-ji Temple is located in a residential area, adjacent to Kamimyoji Temple. It sits quietly along Suehiro Street, which retains the charm of old Tokyo, across from Higashisuna 3-chome Park.
Upon passing through the temple gate, a magnificent main hall comes into view. Although the main hall is a relatively new building constructed after the Showa era, it maintains the style of traditional temple architecture. In front of the main hall is a hall used for religious services and various events.
The temple grounds are meticulously maintained, creating a tranquil space far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and serene atmosphere during their visit.
Annual Events and Memorial Services at Insoku-ji Temple
As a temple of the Shinshu Otani sect, Insoku-ji Temple holds various memorial services and events throughout the year.
Hoonko (Memorial Service and Gathering on the Anniversary of Death)
Hoonko is one of the most important memorial services in Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, commemorating the anniversary of the death of the sect’s founder, Shinran Shonin, and expressing gratitude for his virtues. At Insoku-ji Temple, the Hoonko service is solemnly held every year, combined with the “Gathering on the Anniversary of Death.”
Hoonko provides a valuable opportunity to learn about the teachings of Shinran Shonin and reaffirm the teachings of Nembutsu. Many worshippers, including parishioners, gather, and the service is conducted in a solemn atmosphere.
Eitaikyo Memorial Service (Memorial Service and Gathering on the Anniversary of Death)
Eitaikyo Memorial Service is a service to commemorate the spirits of ancestors and to pray for the recitation of sutras for eternity. At Insoku-ji Temple, this memorial service is held in conjunction with the “Gathering on the Anniversary of Death,” providing an important opportunity for parishioners to renew their gratitude to their ancestors.
Insoku-ji Children’s Festival
Insoku-ji Temple holds a “Children’s Festival” for local children. This event serves to convey Buddhist teachings in an accessible way to children and also functions as a place for community interaction.
Games, performances, and candy distribution are among the activities children can enjoy, making it an important event that strengthens the ties between the temple and the community.
Akihabara Shinran Lecture
Insoku-ji Temple holds a “Shinran Lecture” in Akihabara. This lecture series teaches the teachings of Shinran Shonin and his works such as the *Kyogyoshinsho*, and is open not only to parishioners but also to the general public.
The lecture series features keynote speeches by Insoku-ji monks and invited lecturers, allowing participants to delve into the profound depths of Shinran’s thought. This is a valuable opportunity to learn about Shinran’s teachings from a modern perspective, including an attempt to reinterpret the *Kyogyoshinsho* as a “world philosophy.”
Other Regular Events
In addition to the main events listed above, Insokuji Temple also regularly holds monthly memorial services and study sessions. Detailed annual event schedules are posted on the Insokuji Temple official website and bulletin board; those wishing to participate are advised to check in advance.
Access and Transportation Information
Access by Train
Insokuji Temple can be accessed using public transportation.
Nearest Stations:
- Toei Shinjuku Line Oshima Station: Approximately 15 minutes on foot
- Toei Shinjuku Line Higashi-Oshima Station: Approximately 15 minutes on foot
Walking southeast from Oshima Station or south from Higashi-Oshima Station will lead you to Insokuji Temple. Since it is located in a residential area, first-time visitors may find it helpful to use a map app.
Access by Bus
You can also use Toei Bus and Toei Bus routes. The nearest bus stop is a few minutes’ walk away. For detailed bus routes, please check the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation website.
Access by Car and Parking
If you are visiting by private car, you can access the temple from the Metropolitan Expressway and major arterial roads. However, since Insoku-ji Temple is located in a residential area, parking space is limited. We recommend using public transportation during memorial services and events.
For detailed information on parking availability and hours, we recommend contacting Insoku-ji Temple (Tel: 03-3644-0986) in advance.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Around Insokuji Temple, there are several spots where you can experience the history and culture of Koto Ward:
- Kamimyoji Temple: A temple adjacent to Insokuji Temple
- Higashisuna 3-chome Park: A local gathering place across from Insokuji Temple
- Sunamachi Ginza Shopping Street: A shopping street full of old-town charm (within walking distance)
We recommend enjoying a stroll through the old town of Koto Ward in conjunction with your visit to Insokuji Temple.
Manners and Precautions for Visiting
Visiting Hours
Insokuji Temple is generally open during daylight hours. If there are memorial services or events, please visit at the designated time.
Temple Visiting Etiquette
At Insoku-ji Temple, a Shinshu Otani sect temple, please observe the following temple visiting etiquette:
- Bow at the Temple Gate: When passing through the temple gate, bow before entering the temple grounds.
- Pray at the Main Hall: Pray with your hands clasped together in front of the Amida Buddha statue in the main hall and recite the Nembutsu (Buddhist invocation).
- Respect: Please be quiet on the temple grounds and be considerate of other visitors.
- Photography: Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds, but please refrain from taking photos during religious services or inside the main hall.
Inquiries
For inquiries regarding participation in religious services, temple visits, or other matters, please contact the following:
Phone: 03-3644-0986
When inquiring, please mention that you “saw the information on the internet” for smoother communication.
Insoku-ji Temple and the Teachings of the Shinshu Otani School
Shinran Shonin and Jodo Shinshu
The Shinshu Otani School, to which Insoku-ji Temple belongs, is a branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, founded by the Kamakura period monk Shinran Shonin (1173-1263). Shinran Shonin inherited the teachings of his teacher, Honen Shonin, and taught that by believing in the original vow of Amida Buddha and chanting the Nembutsu, everyone can equally attain rebirth in the Pure Land.
Shinran’s teachings, exemplified by the “theory of salvation for the wicked,” were a revolutionary idea, asserting that ordinary people burdened with worldly desires are precisely the objects of Amida Buddha’s salvation.
*Kyogyoshinsho* and World Thought
Shinran Shonin’s main work, *Kyogyoshinsho*, is considered a fundamental scripture of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. At the Akihabara Shinran Lecture Series at Insoku-ji Temple, an attempt is being made to reinterpret the *Kyogyoshinsho* (Teaching, Practice, Faith, and Enlightenment) as a “world philosophy.”
In Shinran’s time, “the world” referred to India, China, Korea, and Japan. Since Shinran encompassed the philosophies of these regions when writing the *Kyogyoshinsho*, this perspective suggests that he expressed Shin Buddhism as a “world philosophy” of his time.
Through this modern interpretation, Shinran’s teachings are being re-evaluated not merely as a branch of Buddhism, but as a philosophy that preaches universal human salvation.
Characteristics of the Shinshu Otani School
The Shinshu Otani School is a branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, with Higashi Hongan-ji Temple in Kyoto as its head temple. It was established during the Meiji era through the split of Hongan-ji into eastern and western branches, and today it is a large religious organization with approximately 8,900 temples nationwide.
The following are some of the characteristics of the Shinshu Otani sect:
- Faith centered on Nembutsu: The chanting of “Namu Amida Butsu” is central to their faith.
- Emphasis on funerals and memorial services: Memorial services such as ancestral veneration and Hoonko (memorial services) are highly valued.
- Lay Buddhism: Marriage of monks is permitted, and the faith of lay people is emphasized.
- Tradition of Buddhist teachings: A tradition of studying the writings of Shinran Shonin is deeply rooted.
Insoku-ji Temple, while upholding these traditions of the Shinshu Otani sect, also fulfills its role as a modern Buddhist temple.
Insoku-ji Temple’s Role in the Community
As a Center of the Local Community
Insoku-ji Temple, located in the Higashi-Suna area of Koto Ward, serves not only as a religious facility but also as a center of the local community. Through events such as the “Children’s Festival,” it provides a place for local residents to interact and fosters connections across generations.
A Place to Tell the History of Edo/Tokyo
Insokuji Temple, with its historical sites that convey the history of Edo period culture and industry, such as the graves of Yotsuguruma Daihachi and Matsumoto Kyushiro, plays an important role in history education in Koto Ward. In particular, Matsumoto Kyushiro’s achievements in accelerated cultivation are an indispensable element in discussing the agricultural history of present-day Koto Ward.
The Role of Temples in Modern Times
In today’s world, characterized by a declining birthrate, an aging population, and increasing urbanization, Insokuji Temple maintains its traditional religious activities while also developing activities that meet the needs of modern society. Its missionary activities, such as holding Shinran lectures in Akihabara, go beyond the confines of a temple, demonstrating a new role for Buddhist temples in the modern era.
Summary: Reasons to Recommend a Visit to Insokuji Temple
Insokuji Temple, an ancient temple of the Shinshu Otani sect with a history of over 400 years, has preserved its Buddhist teachings from the Edo period to the present day. Its history of relocation, from its founding in Kyobashi to Kobikicho, Fukagawa, and finally to its current location in Higashi-Suna, is a reflection of the history of Tokyo’s urban development. Within the temple grounds are valuable historical sites that tell the story of Edo culture, including the grave of Yotsuguruma Daihachi, a sumo wrestler known for the “Me-gumi Brawl,” and the grave of Matsumoto Kyushiro (a Koto Ward designated historical site), who established the Sunamura accelerated cultivation method. These are must-see spots for sumo fans and history enthusiasts.
In addition to traditional Buddhist services such as the Hoonko and Eitaikyo memorial services, Insoku-ji Temple actively engages in modern activities such as children’s festivals and Akihabara Shinran lectures. The Shinran lectures, in particular, offer a deep dive into Buddhist teachings, including an attempt to reinterpret the *Kyogyoshinsho* as a “world philosophy.”
Access is convenient, about a 15-minute walk from Oshima Station or Higashi-Oshima Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line. Located in the residential area of Higashi-Suna, which retains the atmosphere of old Tokyo, it offers a tranquil setting for a peaceful visit.
Insoku-ji Temple offers a glimpse into the history and culture that has continued since the Edo period, and the role of Buddhism in the modern age. If you’re ever in Koto Ward, why not pay a visit? You’ll be able to experience the teachings of Shinran Shonin, feel the history of Edo, and spend a precious time quietly reflecting on yourself.
