About Kōzenji Temple, Kukiyama, Jōdo Shinshū Honganji-ha
Kōzenji Temple, Kukiyama, Jōdo Shinshū Honganji-ha, is a temple of the Jōdo Shinshū Honganji-ha sect located at 107 Masubuchi, Ōnan-chō, Ōchi-gun, Shimane Prefecture. Despite its remote location deep in the mountains of the San’in region, it is known for its unique activities that blend a history dating back to the Muromachi period with modern initiatives such as psychological counseling and YouTube broadcasting.
Its mountain name, “Kukiyama,” originates from its relocation to the Kuki Silver Mine during the Sengoku period by order of Mōri Motonari. The current head priest, Reverend Masafumi Takeda, is a certified clinical psychologist and licensed psychologist, and uses a unique approach combining Buddhism and psychology to support many people with their emotional problems.
History and Origins of Kōzenji Temple
Founding in the Muromachi Period and Connection to Rennyo Shōnin
The founding of Kōzenji Temple dates back to the Muromachi period. Founded by Ryōchibō, a direct disciple of Rennyo Shōnin, known as the restorer of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism, Kōzenji Temple is a prestigious temple that orthodoxly carries on the teachings of Jōdo Shinshū. Rennyo Shōnin was a highly respected priest who spread Jōdo Shinshū throughout Japan in the late 15th century. The fact that the temple was founded by his direct disciple demonstrates its historical significance as a legitimate successor to the teachings of Jōdo Shinshū.
Ryōchibō received direct instruction from Rennyo Shōnin and dedicated himself to spreading Jōdo Shinshū in the San’in region. At that time, many areas in the San’in region were not yet fully infiltrated by Buddhism, and Ryōchibō’s activities played a crucial role in conveying the salvation of Amida Buddha to the local people.
Deep Connection with the Kuki Silver Mine
An essential aspect of Kōzenji Temple’s history is its connection to the Kuki Silver Mine. During the Sengoku period, Mōri Motonari, who became the ruler of the Chūgoku region, prioritized the development of mines within his territory. The Kuki Silver Mine was known as the second most important silver mine after the Iwami Silver Mine and was a vital base supporting the Mōri clan’s finances.
By order of Mori Motonari, Kōzenji Temple was relocated to the Kuki Silver Mine. This was not merely a relocation of the temple; it was expected to serve as a spiritual support for the people working in the silver mine. Mining was dangerous, and many workers lost their lives, so the temple’s presence was a great source of comfort for them.
Relocation to the Current Location and Construction of the Main Hall
Later, with the decline of the silver mine and the changing times, Kōzenji Temple rebuilt its main hall in its current location in Masubuchi, Ōnan-chō. Masubuchi is located in the mountainous area of Ōchi-gun, surrounded by abundant nature in a quiet environment. In this location, Kōzenji Temple has continued to function as a center of faith and a spiritual haven for the local people.
The current main hall maintains the traditional architectural style of Jōdo Shinshū temples, while being properly maintained and warmly welcoming visitors.
The Teachings of the Jodo Shinshu Honganji School and Kozenji Temple
What is the Jodo Shinshu Honganji School?
The Jodo Shinshu Honganji School is the largest sect of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, founded by Shinran Shonin. Its head temple is Nishi Honganji (Ryukokuzan Honganji) in Kyoto, and it has over 10,000 temples nationwide.
The core of Jodo Shinshu teachings is “other-power vow.” This teaching states that salvation is achieved not through one’s own power (self-power), but through the vow power (other-power) of Amida Buddha. The teaching that anyone can equally attain rebirth in the Pure Land by chanting the Nembutsu has been accepted by many people regardless of social status or education level, and has developed into the largest Buddhist sect in Japan.
The Practice of Jodo Shinshu at Kozenji Temple
At Kozenji Temple, while preserving the traditional teachings of the Jodo Shinshu Honganji School, efforts are made to convey Buddhism in a way that is easily understandable to people living in modern society. Through regular Dharma talks and memorial services, we offer opportunities to learn about the compassion of Amida Buddha and the teachings of Shinran Shonin.
In Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, “listening to the Dharma,” that is, listening to the Buddhist teachings, is highly valued. At Kozenji Temple, we are committed to creating an environment where visitors and parishioners can easily listen to Dharma talks, providing a place to learn together how Buddhist teachings can be applied to daily life.
Abbot Masafumi Takeda’s Unique Initiatives
A Monk as a Clinical Psychologist and Certified Psychologist
Abbot Masafumi Takeda, the current abbot of Kozenji Temple, has an extremely unique background, being both a Buddhist monk and a certified clinical psychologist. He aims to create a temple that can address mental health concerns through Buddhism and psychology, by integrating Buddhist teachings with insights from modern psychology.
A clinical psychologist is a professional who uses specialized knowledge of psychology to address people’s mental health issues. A certified psychologist is the first national qualification for psychology professionals in Japan, and these qualifications allow Abbot Takeda to provide evidence-based psychological support. ### Butsushin Channel: Buddhism and Psychology on YouTube
Master Takeda operates a YouTube channel called “Butsushin Channel,” where he works as a Buddhist monk and YouTuber. This channel features videos that explain Buddhist teachings and psychology in an easy-to-understand way, attracting many viewers nationwide.
The videos cover a wide range of topics, addressing various mental health issues faced by modern people, such as life’s worries, relationships, and coping mechanisms for anxiety and stress. By rephrasing classical Buddhist teachings in modern language and combining them with psychological insights, the content is practical and useful for viewers.
By utilizing the modern medium of YouTube, Buddhist teachings can be delivered to people who find it difficult to visit temples in person, making this a noteworthy new form of missionary work.
Online Counseling
Kozenji Temple also offers online counseling. This service, which allows people to receive psychological support via the internet, transcending the constraints of location and time, is a valuable opportunity, especially for people living far away or those who are hesitant about face-to-face counseling.
In counseling, we address clients’ concerns from both a professional clinical psychologist’s perspective and a Buddhist monk’s viewpoint. While utilizing psychotherapy techniques, we aim to bring about deeper insights and healing by incorporating Buddhist wisdom.
Services and Activities Offered at Kozenji Temple
Funeral and Memorial Service Handling
Kozenji Temple conducts funerals and memorial services in accordance with the traditions of the Jodo Shinshu Honganji sect. For those experiencing a Buddhist funeral or memorial service for the first time, there are often anxieties and questions regarding etiquette and preparations. At Kozenji Temple, we carefully address such anxieties, valuing ceremonies that commemorate the deceased and offer comfort to the bereaved family.
We handle various Buddhist services throughout the year, including annual memorial services, monthly visits, and Obon and Higan services, providing clear explanations not only for temple members but also for those visiting a Jodo Shinshu temple for the first time.
Dharma Talks and Learning Opportunities for Those Who Want to Learn About Buddhism
For those who want to learn about Buddhism, Kozenji Temple regularly holds Dharma talks and study sessions. We offer opportunities to learn in an easy-to-understand way, even for beginners, covering everything from the basic teachings of Buddhism to the characteristics of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism and the life and thought of Shinran Shonin.
While Buddhism is often perceived as having many difficult philosophies and doctrines, Kozenji Temple strives to explain Buddhism in easy-to-understand language rooted in daily life. Dialogue and questions among participants are welcomed, and a collaborative learning atmosphere is highly valued.
Support for People with Mental Health Problems
In modern society, the number of people suffering from various mental health problems such as stress, anxiety, loneliness, and relationship difficulties is increasing. Kozenji Temple considers supporting “people with mental health problems” to be an important mission.
In addition to counseling by clinical psychologist Reverend Takeda, we also offer healing for the mind through Buddhist teachings. In particular, the Jodo Shinshu teaching of “salvation as you are” brings great comfort to those who blame themselves or suffer from striving for perfection.
Healing of the Mind and Listening to Dharma Talks
For those who wish to listen to Dharma talks casually or are interested in healing their minds, Kozenji Temple offers various formats of Dharma talks. Consideration is also given to making it easier for those who have difficulty sitting in the traditional kneeling position to participate, such as providing chairs.
The Dharma talks cover not only Buddhist teachings but also themes such as the joys and sorrows experienced in daily life and the meaning of life. The content is designed to allow participants to reflect on their own lives and find inner peace.
Access and Visiting Information for Kōzenji Temple
Location and Contact Information
Location: 107 Masubuchi, Ōnan-chō, Ōchi-gun, Shimane Prefecture 696-0221
Phone Number: 0855-83-0305
Email Address: takemasa0914@ymail.ne.jp
Kōzenji Temple is located in the mountainous region of Shimane Prefecture and is known as a “temple deep in the mountains.” Surrounded by abundant nature, it offers a tranquil environment where visitors can find peace of mind during their visit.
Transportation Access
Access to Kōzenji Temple is primarily by car. The nearest station is Utsui Station on the JR San’e Line, but the San’e Line was discontinued in 2018, and currently, a replacement bus service operates. Public transportation access is limited, so it is recommended to check transportation options in advance.
If traveling by car, take National Route 54 from Hiroshima or National Route 261 from Hamada towards Onan Town. When using a car navigation system, searching by address or phone number will be the most efficient.
Precautions for Visitors
Due to its mountainous location, there is a possibility of snow and icy roads during winter. If you plan to visit, please check the weather and road conditions beforehand and make appropriate preparations, such as installing winter tires.
Also, the head priest may be absent due to memorial services or events. Therefore, especially if you wish to have individual consultations or counseling, it is recommended to contact the temple by phone or email in advance.
Kozenji Temple’s Website and Latest Information
Kozenji Temple operates an official website (https://kozen.or.jp/), which is regularly updated with the latest announcements, event schedules, and sermon content. The website also features content such as “New Columns” and “Recent Events,” allowing you to learn about the temple’s daily life and the head priest’s thoughts.
Furthermore, the website includes links to the aforementioned “Buddha’s Heart Channel” and instructions on how to book online counseling sessions, ensuring that even those living far away can connect with Kōzenji Temple.
Searching for keywords such as “Kōzenji Shimane,” “Kukiyama Kōzenji,” and “Masafumi Takeda” on search engines will lead you to the temple’s website, YouTube channel, and articles on various information sites.
Attractions of Ōnan Town and Surrounding Areas
Characteristics of Ōnan Town
Ōnan Town is a town of approximately 10,000 people located in Ōchi District, in the central part of Shimane Prefecture. Known as a “town of A-class gourmet food,” it is popular for its dishes and specialty products utilizing local ingredients. It is a region with a rich natural environment and preserved traditional rural culture, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Masubuchi district, where Kōzenji Temple is located, is blessed with clear streams, as its name suggests, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the seasons. Surrounded by mountains that display different expressions with each season—the fresh green of spring, the deep green of summer, the vibrant autumn foliage, and the snowy winter landscape—the environment soothes the hearts of visitors.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Kozenji Temple, you can also visit nearby tourist attractions. Within Onan Town, there are natural scenic spots such as Iwami Onsen, Koboku no Mori Park, and Dangyokei Gorge.
Furthermore, within the same Ochi District, there are other historical temples, including Jozenji Temple (also of the Jodo Shinshu Honganji sect), which boasts the second largest ginkgo tree in Shimane Prefecture. While visiting temples, you can also learn about the history and culture of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in the San’in region.
The Role of Temples in Modern Society and Kozenji Temple’s Challenges
Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
In modern Japanese society, the role of temples is changing dramatically. While temples once functioned as the center of local communities, urbanization, the rise of nuclear families, and the decline in religious affiliation have raised questions about their very existence.
While preserving its traditional role as a temple, Kozenji Temple is actively incorporating modern methods such as YouTube and online counseling to explore new ways of being a temple in the modern era. This “fusion of tradition and innovation” can be considered a model case that many temples can learn from.
Integration of Buddhism and Psychology
The “integration of Buddhism and psychology” practiced by Master Takeda is attracting attention as a new approach to the mental health problems of modern people. Buddhism is a science of the mind with a history of over 2500 years, while psychology is the scientific study of the mind that has developed since the modern era. Combining these two allows for more comprehensive and effective mental care.
For example, by combining psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy with Buddhist teachings such as “non-self” and “impermanence,” it is possible to change thought patterns and find a path to liberation from suffering. Just as mindfulness meditation is gaining worldwide attention, there are many commonalities between Buddhist practices and the insights of modern psychology, and their integration holds great potential.
Activities Beyond Local Boundaries
Although Kozenji Temple is located deep in the mountains, it is expanding its activities beyond local boundaries by utilizing the internet. The YouTube channel’s audience is spread nationwide, and online counseling is available regardless of location.
These activities are becoming a model for survival for temples in rural areas facing depopulation. The ability to connect with people beyond physical distance and spread Buddhist teachings is a great potential brought about by modern technology.
Summary: Kozenji Temple’s aim to be a “temple that understands and supports people’s hearts”
Kuzenji Temple, a Jodo Shinshu Honganji sect temple on Mount Kuki, is a rare example of a temple with a long history dating back to the Muromachi period, yet it is undertaking innovative initiatives to meet the needs of modern society.
With a rich historical background, including its founding by a direct disciple of Rennyo Shonin, its connection to Mori Motonari, and its history in the Kuki Silver Mine, the temple, under the leadership of Chief Priest Masafumi Takeda, a clinical psychologist and certified psychologist, uses a unique approach that fuses Buddhism and psychology to support many people’s emotional struggles.
Through various means such as YouTube video distribution, online counseling, and easy-to-understand Dharma talks, Kozenji Temple is steadily realizing its goal of being “a temple that can address emotional distress with Buddhism and psychology.”
Despite its location deep in the mountains of Ohnan Town, Shimane Prefecture, Kozenji Temple connects with people across Japan and even the world via the internet, making it a pioneering example of a 21st-century temple.
While cherishing the traditional roles of temples, such as funerals and memorial services, Kozenji Temple earnestly addresses the emotional problems faced by modern people, utilizing Buddhist wisdom and insights from modern psychology to provide support. Its activities embody what is required of temples in the coming era.
For those interested in Buddhism, those struggling with emotional distress, or those wishing to reflect deeply on life, Kozenji Temple is a place worth visiting. Even if direct visits are difficult, its teachings can be accessed through its website and YouTube channel.
Kukiyama Kozenji Temple can be considered one of the ideal modern temples, preserving tradition while continuously innovating.
