Jōkōji Temple (Koto Ward, Tokyo) Complete Guide | History, Goshuin (Temple Seal), and the Charm of the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage
Jōkōji Temple, located in Kameido, Koto Ward, Tokyo, is a historically significant Sōtō Zen temple said to date back to the Nara period. It is known as the sixth temple on the Edo Six Amida Pilgrimage and as a sacred site enshrining Jurōjin, one of the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods, attracting many visitors. This article provides a detailed guide to Jōkōji Temple, including its history, highlights, goshuin information, and access methods.
Overview and Basic Information of Jōkōji Temple
Jōkōji Temple is a Sōtō Zen temple located at 4-48-3 Kameido, Koto Ward, Tokyo. Its official name is “Ryūhōzan Jōkōji,” and it enshrines an Amida Buddha statue said to have been created by Gyōki Bodhisattva as its principal image.
Basic Temple Data
- Sect: Soto Zen
- Mountain Name: Ryuhōzan
- Principal Image: Amida Buddha (Traditionally attributed to Gyōki)
- Founding: Said to be in 737 AD
- Founder: Gyōki Bodhisattva
- Location: 4-48-3 Kameido, Koto-ku, Tokyo
- Sacred Site: Sixth of the Edo Six Amida Pilgrimages, Kameido Seven Lucky Gods (Jurōjin)
Jōkōji Temple has been a place of worship since the Edo period and has been cherished by the local people. Even today, many worshippers visit, and it is particularly lively during the New Year’s Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage.
History and Origins of Jōkōji Temple
Founding Legend in the Nara Period
Jōkōji Temple is said to have been founded in 737 AD (Tenpyō 9) by Gyōki Bodhisattva. Gyōki was a renowned high priest of the Nara period who established temples and social projects throughout Japan. The principal image, a statue of Amida Buddha, is also attributed to Gyōki and has been an object of worship since ancient times.
Conversion to the Sōtō Zen School in the Muromachi Period
While there are various theories regarding the temple’s original sect, records indicate that it converted to the Sōtō Zen school in 1544 (Tenbun 13). This period coincided with the Sengoku period (Warring States period), a time when many temples changed sects or were re-established. The Sōtō Zen school, a branch of Zen Buddhism, enjoyed widespread devotion throughout the Edo period.
Relocation and Development During the Edo Period
In 1629 (Kanei 6), Rishoin, the wife of Ina Tadayoshi, who served as the Kanto regional governor, founded the temple, laying its foundation. Initially located in Fukagawa Shimosaga-cho (present-day Saga, Koto Ward), it relocated to its current location in Kameido in 1641 (Kanei 18).
This relocation allowed Jokoji Temple to develop into a central temple in the Kameido area. During the Edo period, it attracted many pilgrims as the sixth temple on the “Edo Six Amida Pilgrimage.”
What is the Edo Six Amida Pilgrimage?
The Edo Six Amida Pilgrimage was a popular pilgrimage among common people during the Edo period. It involved visiting six temples enshrining Amida Buddha located near Edo, and spread as a faith to pray for rebirth in paradise. Jokoji Temple, as the sixth temple, held an important position on the pilgrimage route.
Highlights and Cultural Assets of Jōkōji Temple
Principal Image: Amida Buddha Statue
The principal image of Jōkōji Temple, the Amida Buddha statue, is a precious Buddhist statue said to have been created by Gyōki Bodhisattva. As one of the Six Amida Buddhas of Edo, it has attracted many worshippers since ancient times. Amida Buddha is worshipped by those who wish to attain rebirth in the Pure Land after death, as the principal deity of paradise.
Kameido Seven Lucky Gods: Jurōjin
Within the grounds of Jōkōji Temple, Jurōjin, one of the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods, is enshrined. Jurōjin is known as the god of longevity and is depicted with a long white beard, a staff, and accompanied by a deer. It is housed in a dedicated hall in a corner of the temple grounds, and many worshippers visit, especially during the New Year’s Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage.
Historical Sites with Inscribed Dates
Within the temple grounds, several historical sites remain, including stone monuments and lanterns from the Edo period, bearing inscribed dates (years of creation). These are valuable cultural assets that convey the state of religious belief during the Edo period and tell the story of the region’s history.
Atmosphere of the Temple Grounds
Despite its location in the heart of the city, the grounds of Jōkōji Temple maintain a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. The main gate is usually closed, but you can enter through the side entrance on the right. The grounds are meticulously maintained, creating a space where you can experience the beauty of nature throughout the seasons.
Goshuin (Temple Seal) Information
Goshuin of the Six Amida Temples of Edo
At Jōkōji Temple, you can receive a goshuin (temple seal) as the sixth temple on the Edo Six Amida Pilgrimage. The goshuin, inscribed with “Edo Six Amida No. 6,” is popular as proof of pilgrimage. Since the head priest is often absent, pre-printed goshuin are generally available.
Goshuin (temple stamp) of the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods
As a temple dedicated to Jurojin (the god of longevity), you can also receive a goshuin for the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage. The Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage is especially popular during the New Year, and the temples and shrines are bustling with visitors who visit all seven in one day. The Jurojin goshuin at Jokoji Temple is given to visitors praying for longevity.
Points to Note When Receiving a Goshuin
At Jokoji Temple, the head priest is often absent, and goshuin are mainly pre-printed. When visiting, enter through the service entrance and look for pre-printed goshuin near the goshuin office or main hall. Please observe proper temple etiquette and be mindful of quietly exploring the temple grounds.
How to Enjoy the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage
What are the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods?
The Kameido Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage involves visiting seven temples and shrines scattered throughout the Kameido area of Koto Ward. The Seven Lucky Gods are seven deities who bring good fortune and prosperity: Ebisu, Daikokuten, Bishamonten, Benzaiten, Fukurokuju, Jurōjin, and Hotei.
The Role of Jōkōji Temple
Jōkōji Temple, as the temple that enshrines Jurōjin among the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods, plays an important role in the pilgrimage route. Jurōjin is considered an incarnation of the star of the South Pole and is worshipped as a god who brings longevity and happiness.
The Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage Course
The Kameido Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage is a course that can be completed on foot in a few hours. The temples and shrines, including Jōkōji Temple, are relatively concentrated around Kameido Station, and during the New Year’s pilgrimage season, they are bustling with worshippers carrying special paper and stamp books. At each temple and shrine, you can receive a stamp or other items representing the Seven Lucky Gods, and it is believed that completing the pilgrimage to all seven will bring complete good fortune and prosperity.
Transportation Access and Visiting Information
Access by Train
Walking Route from the Nearest Station
- Tobu Kameido Line “Kameido Suijin Station”: Approximately 5 minutes on foot (closest station)
- JR Sobu Line “Kameido Station”: Approximately 12 minutes on foot
- Toei Shinjuku Line “Nishi-Ojima Station”: Approximately 15 minutes on foot
The most convenient access is from Kameido Suijin Station. Exiting the station and heading south, you will arrive at Jokoji Temple in about 500 meters. From Kameido Station, the route is northeast, opposite to the direction of Kameido Tenjin Shrine.
Access by Car
Jokoji Temple has a parking lot, so you can visit by car. However, parking space is limited, so congestion is expected, especially during the New Year’s Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage and on weekends. There are also coin-operated parking lots nearby, so we recommend using them depending on the situation.
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
The grounds of Jōkōji Temple are generally open for worship during daytime hours. Admission is free, but a donation is required when receiving a Goshuin (temple stamp) or other items. The main gate is often closed, but you can enter through the side entrance on the right.
Notes for Visitors
- As the head priest is often absent, Goshuin are mainly pre-printed.
- Please worship quietly on the temple grounds and be considerate of other visitors.
- Photography is permitted, but please refrain from photographing Buddha statues or the interior of the main hall.
- Please take your trash with you.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Kameido Tenjin Shrine
Kameido Tenjin Shrine, located within walking distance of Jōkōji Temple, is famous as a shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. It is also known as a famous spot for wisteria and plum blossoms, offering beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
Other Temples and Shrines of the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods
If you are visiting the Seven Lucky Gods, we recommend visiting the other six temples and shrines in addition to Jōkōji Temple. Each has its own unique characteristics, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Kameido area.
Kameido Central Park
This park is a popular place of relaxation for local residents and is perfect for walks and picnics. It can also be used as a resting spot after visiting the temple.
Annual Events at Jōkōji Temple
New Year’s Visit and Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage
Jōkōji Temple is busiest during the New Year period. Many visitors on the Kameido Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage come to pray to Jurōjin for longevity. Special offerings and Goshuin (temple stamps) may be available during this time.
Spring and Autumn Equinox Services
As a Sōtō Zen temple, memorial services for ancestors are held during the spring and autumn equinoxes. This event is open not only to temple parishioners but also to general visitors.
Other Buddhist Services
Buddhist services related to the principal image, Amida Buddha, and regular sutra chanting sessions are also held. Please contact the temple directly for details.
Pilgrimage to the Six Amida Temples of Edo
Significance of the Six Amida Pilgrimage
The Six Amida Pilgrimage of Edo is a pilgrimage that spread as a popular faith among ordinary people during the Edo period. It is a faith in praying for rebirth in paradise by visiting six Amida Buddhas, and many worshippers continue this pilgrimage even today.
Location of Jōkōji Temple (Sixth Temple)
Jōkōji Temple holds an important position as the sixth and final temple on the Six Amida Pilgrimage of Edo. Many people visit with special feelings, as completing the pilgrimage marks its completion.
The Other Five Pilgrimage Sites
The other pilgrimage sites of the Edo Six Amida Pilgrimage are scattered throughout Tokyo. By taking the time to visit all six, you can experience the religious culture and history of Edo. Each site has its own history and characteristics, making the pilgrimage enjoyable as a historical exploration as well.
The Teachings of the Soto Zen School and Jokoji Temple
What is the Soto Zen School?
The Soto Zen School is a branch of Zen Buddhism, an important sect of Japanese Buddhism founded by Zen Master Dogen. It emphasizes “Shikantaza” (just sitting), teaching that daily life itself is a form of spiritual practice.
Faith at Jokoji Temple
Jokoji Temple conducts religious services and practices based on the teachings of the Soto Zen School. A unique form of faith, a fusion of the worship of the principal image, Amida Buddha, and the teachings of Zen, is a characteristic of this temple.
About Cemeteries and Perpetual Memorial Services
Information on Temple Cemeteries
Jokoji Temple manages a temple cemetery and accepts new cemetery users. Despite its proximity to the city center, it is highly regarded as a quiet environment for ancestral memorial services.
Options for Perpetual Memorial Services
In response to recent needs, we also accept consultations regarding perpetual memorial graves. For those without successors or those concerned about cemetery management, perpetual memorial services provided by a temple offer a reassuring option.
Fees and Application Method
For information regarding perpetual cemetery usage fees, management fees, and perpetual memorial service fees, we recommend contacting the temple directly. Visits and consultations are welcome at any time, and you can receive a thorough explanation.
Etiquette for Visiting Jokoji Temple
Etiquette for Visiting a Temple
When visiting a temple, first bow at the main gate before entering the grounds. If there is a water basin, purify your hands and mouth, then join your hands in prayer and bow towards the main hall. Let’s visit the temple quietly, calm our minds, and offer our gratitude and prayers.
How to Obtain a Goshuin (Temple Stamp)
A Goshuin is a stamp received as proof of your visit. After completing your prayers, please respectfully request one at the Goshuin office. While Jōkōji Temple mainly offers pre-printed Goshuin, please cherish the spirit of your visit.
Photography Etiquette
Photography of the temple grounds and building exteriors is permitted, but it is considered good manners to refrain from photographing the interior of the main hall or the Buddha statues. Please be considerate of other visitors when taking photos.
Summary: Rediscovering the Charm of Jōkōji Temple
Located in Kameido, Koto-ku, Tokyo, Jōkōji Temple is a venerable Sōtō Zen temple said to have a history dating back to the Nara period. It has long been cherished by many visitors as the sixth temple on the Edo Six Amida Pilgrimage and as a sacred site enshrining Jurōjin, one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Kameido.
Jōkōji Temple boasts numerous attractions, including the principal image of Amida Buddha, said to have been created by Gyōki, the statue of Jurōjin (god of longevity), and historical sites within its grounds that tell the story of its history dating back to the Edo period. Its convenient location, just a 5-minute walk from Kameido Suijin Station, and easy access from central Tokyo, are also major draws.
Whether you’re visiting the Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage during the New Year, participating in the Edo Six Amida pilgrimage, or simply offering daily prayers, Jōkōji Temple provides a peaceful space for reflection. When visiting the Kameido area, be sure to stop by this historic temple.
For those collecting temple stamps, interested in the Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage, wanting to experience Edo-period religious culture, or simply seeking a quiet place to find peace, Jōkōji Temple is an ideal pilgrimage spot. Spend a peaceful time at this temple steeped in Kameido’s history and faith.
