Complete Guide to Toshōji Temple (Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture) | History, Cultural Assets, and Goshuin (Temple Seal) Information of the Kitayama Five Mountains
About Toshōji Temple
Toshōji Temple is a Rinzai Zen temple of the Tōfukuji school, located at 8-1 Aoba-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture. Its mountain name is Muisan, and its principal image is Shakyamuni Buddha. Known as one of the “Kitayama Five Mountains” established by Date Masamune, the founder of the Sendai Domain, it is a historically significant Zen temple with deep ties to the Date family.
The Kitayama Five Mountains is a collective term for five Zen Buddhist temples located on the Kitayama Hills northwest of Sendai Castle. Besides Toshōji Temple, they consist of Kōmyōji Temple, Kakuhanji Temple, Shifukuji Temple, and Manshōji Temple (later renamed Rinnōji Temple). These temples played a role in the defense and spiritual support of Sendai.
History of Toshōji Temple
Medieval Period: From its Founding to its Connection with the Date Family
The founding of Toshōji Temple dates back to 1283 (Kōan 6). It was established in Kōori-machi, Date-gun, Fukushima Prefecture, the birthplace of the Date family, by Date Masayori, the fourth head of the Date family. Masayori was deeply devoted to Buddhism and is known as the first person to establish a full-fledged family temple for the Date family.
The founding abbot was Zen Master Kokei Edon, a high-ranking priest of Tōfuku-ji Temple in Kyoto. Because of this connection, Toshōji Temple became affiliated with the Tōfuku-ji branch of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism. The temple’s name, “Tōshō,” is said to be a combination of “Tō” from Tōfuku-ji Temple and “Shō,” representing the lineage of Mujun Shiban, the teacher of Zen Master Kokei.
Originally located in Kuwori, Fukushima Prefecture, the temple underwent repeated relocations as the Date clan moved their castle. Each time the Date clan moved their base—from Yanagawa to Nishiyama Castle, and then to Yonezawa—Tōshōji Temple relocated accordingly.
Early Modern Period: Relocation to Sendai and Formation of the Kitayama Five Mountains
In 1600, after the Battle of Sekigahara, Date Masamune was ordered by Tokugawa Ieyasu to relocate to Sendai. The following year, 1601, Masamune began construction of Sendai Castle and simultaneously started developing the castle town.
At this time, Masamune implemented a plan to relocate major temples from Yonezawa to the Kitayama and Hachiman districts northwest of Sendai Castle, in what is now Aoba Ward. This formed the Kitayama Five Mountains. Tōshōji Temple relocated to its current location in 1602, becoming one of the Kitayama Five Mountains.
The arrangement of the Kitayama Five Mountains also had military significance, serving to defend Sendai Castle town. The northwest direction was a crucial defensive line for Sendai at the time, and the group of temples played a part in that defense. Furthermore, by concentrating Zen Buddhist temples, it also functioned as a place for spiritual training for the samurai class.
Throughout the Edo period, Toshōji Temple developed as an important temple in the Sendai domain under the patronage of the Date family. Many monks trained there, and it served as a center of faith in the region.
Modern and Contemporary Period: Changes After the Meiji Restoration
The anti-Buddhist movement after the Meiji Restoration also affected Toshōji Temple, but thanks to the strong local faith and the historical value of the temple, it avoided major losses. However, the confiscation of temple lands by the Meiji government led to a period of economic hardship.
During the Sendai air raid on July 10, 1945, a large part of Sendai city was destroyed, but the Kitayama area suffered relatively little damage, and Toshōji Temple also escaped the ravages of war. This has allowed buildings and cultural properties from the Edo period to be preserved to the present day.
After the war, its value was re-recognized as a center of the local community and a precious cultural heritage site that tells the history of Sendai. Currently, as a temple of the Rinzai sect, Tofuku-ji branch, it continues religious activities such as Zen meditation sessions and memorial services.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Approach and Red Pine Avenue
The approach to Tosho-ji Temple is known for its magnificent avenue of red pines. This approach, with its gently sloping stone steps, displays different expressions in each season, evoking a sense of tranquility and solemnity in visitors. Especially during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves, many worshippers and photography enthusiasts visit.
Red pines are trees well-suited to Sendai’s climate and are believed to have been planted since the Edo period. The aged pine trees tell the story of the temple’s long history.
Temple Gate (Yakui-mon)
After climbing the approach, a magnificent Yakui-mon style temple gate appears. The Yakui-mon gate is a style of gate commonly seen in Zen Buddhist temples, featuring supporting pillars behind the main pillars and a gabled roof.
The main gate of Toshō-ji Temple is estimated to have been built in the mid-Edo period, exhibiting a simple yet dignified appearance. Passing through the gate, an even more tranquil space unfolds, enhancing the atmosphere of a Zen temple.
Main Hall
Located directly in front of the main gate, the main hall is a magnificent building with a hipped roof. The portico features a chidori-hafu (a type of gable), indicating its high status. Inside the main hall is enshrined the principal image, a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, and daily religious services and Zen meditation sessions are held here.
The building is thought to have been rebuilt in the late Edo period, retaining many characteristics of traditional Zen Buddhist architecture. The ceilings and pillars inside showcase the finest craftsmanship of the time.
Priest’s Quarters and Study
The priest’s quarters (kuri) and study are located beside the main hall. The Kuri (kitchen/living quarters) is a building used as the temple’s kitchen and the living quarters of the head priest, while the Shoin (study hall) is used for receiving guests and conducting official duties.
These buildings also retain the style of the Edo period, making them valuable architectural structures that allow us to imagine temple life at that time.
Cultural Properties
Toshōji Temple houses numerous valuable cultural properties accumulated over its long history.
Sendai City Designated Cultural Properties
Toshōji Temple possesses several Sendai City designated cultural properties, including buildings and works of art and crafts. These are important materials that demonstrate the high level of culture in the Sendai Domain during the Edo period.
In particular, the ritual implements and Buddhist artifacts used by successive head priests, and items donated by the Date family, are invaluable for understanding the nature of faith at the time and the relationship between temples and samurai society.
Ancient Documents and Records
Toshōji Temple preserves ancient documents and records documenting the temple’s history since its founding. These documents contain valuable information regarding its relationship with the Date family, the role of temples in Sendai Castle town, and religious policies during the Edo period.
Research by scholars has also been conducted, making an important contribution to the study of Sendai’s history.
Garden
Within the temple grounds is a garden incorporating elements of a dry landscape garden, typical of Zen Buddhist temples. It is believed to have been created during the Edo period, and the stone arrangements and plantings reflect the aesthetic sensibilities of that time.
The garden, where visitors can enjoy the beauty of each season, provides a space of tranquility and healing.
Annual Events and Zen Meditation Sessions
Tōshōji Temple holds various Buddhist events throughout the year.
Main Annual Events
- New Year’s Day – Shushōe (New Year’s Day Ceremony): A Buddhist service praying for peace in the new year
- Spring Equinox – Higan-e (Equinox Ceremony): A Buddhist service for ancestors
- Flower Festival (April 8th) – A Buddhist service celebrating the birth of Buddha
- Obon Festival (August) – A Buddhist service for the Obon festival
- Autumn Equinox – Higan-e (Equinox Ceremony)
- Enlightenment Ceremony (December 8th) – A Buddhist service commemorating the enlightenment of Buddha
- New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing (December 31st) – The ringing of the temple bell at the end of the year
Zen Meditation Sessions
As a Rinzai Zen temple, Tōshōji Temple regularly holds Zen meditation sessions. These sessions, open to beginners, offer a valuable opportunity to escape the stresses of modern society and calm the mind.
Those wishing to participate are advised to contact the temple in advance.
Goshuin (Temple Seal) and Goshuincho (Seal Book)
About Goshuin
Toshōji Temple offers goshuin to visitors. The goshuin features the characters for “Shakyamuni Buddha,” the mountain name “Mui-zan,” and the temple name “Toshōji” written in ink, along with the temple’s seal.
The goshuin is proof of your visit, not merely a commemorative stamp. The correct procedure is to receive the goshuin at the temple’s living quarters after praying at the main hall.
Goshuincho (Seal Book)
We recommend checking upon your visit whether Toshōji Temple offers its own original goshuincho. Those undertaking the Kitayama Gozan pilgrimage may consider using a dedicated goshuincho for visiting all five temples.
Reception Hours and Notes
The reception hours for goshuin are usually from 9:00 AM to around 4:00 PM, but this may be unavailable due to religious services or events. If you want to be sure to receive a Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp), we recommend calling ahead to confirm.
Also, when receiving a Goshuin, please observe the following basic manners:
- First, complete your prayers
- Open your Goshuincho (stamp book) and hand it over
- Prepare your donation (usually around 300 yen)
- Wait quietly
Please observe these basic manners. ## Access Information
Location
Address: 8-1 Aoba-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture 981-0931
Access by Public Transportation
Sendai City Subway Namboku Line
- Get off at “Kita-Sendai Station” and walk for approximately 15 minutes.
- Walk northwest from the station towards the Kitayama area.
Sendai City Bus
- Take a bus bound for Kitayama from the Sendai Station West Exit bus terminal.
- Get off at the “Kitayama” or “Kitayama 5-chome” bus stop and walk for approximately 5 minutes.
Access by Car
Tohoku Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Sendai Miyagi IC”
- Proceed towards downtown Sendai and then to the Kitayama area.
Parking
- There is parking space for visitors on the temple grounds, but the number of spaces is limited.
- If you plan to visit the five temples of Kitayama, we recommend using public transportation.
Nearby Parking
There are few paid parking lots in the Kitayama area, so please be careful if you are visiting by car. Alternatively, you can use coin-operated parking lots around Kita-Sendai Station and walk from there.
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours
While you can generally visit the temple grounds freely, if you wish to view the interior of the buildings, it is recommended to contact the temple in advance.
Visiting Hours: From sunrise to sunset (approximately 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
Admission Fee
Visiting the temple grounds is free. For special viewings or group visits, please contact the temple in advance.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds, but there may be restrictions on photographing the interior of the main hall or cultural artifacts. Please check before taking photos or follow the instructions on the signs.
Kitayama Five Mountains Pilgrimage
When visiting Toshōji Temple, it is recommended to also visit the other temples of the Kitayama Five Mountains.
What are the Kitayama Five Temples?
- Toshōji Temple (Rinzai Zen, Tofukuji School) – Introduced in this article
- Kōmyōji Temple (Rinzai Zen, Myōshinji School) – The family temple of Date Munemura, the second head of the Date family
- Kakuganji Temple (Rinzai Zen, Myōshinji School) – The family temple of Date Yoshihiro, the third head of the Date family
- Shifukuji Temple (Rinzai Zen, Myōshinji School) – The family temple of Date Masamune (Daizen-no-daibu), the ninth head of the Date family
- Rinnōji Temple (Sōtō Zen) – Originally Manshōji Temple, the family temple of Date Mochimune, the eleventh head of the Date family
Model Pilgrimage Course
Starting from Kita-Sendai Station, you can visit all five temples on foot in approximately 2-3 hours.
- Depart from Kita-Sendai Station
- Shifuku-ji Temple (10-minute walk)
- Kakugan-ji Temple (5-minute walk)
- Tosho-ji Temple (5-minute walk)
- Komyoji Temple (5-minute walk)
- Rinnoji Temple (10-minute walk)
- Return to Kita-Sendai Station (15-minute walk)
This tour, including leisurely visits and collecting temple stamps, will take approximately half a day.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Sendai Castle Ruins (Aoba Castle Site)
Approximately 15 minutes by car from Tosho-ji Temple, this is the site of Sendai Castle built by Date Masamune. It features an equestrian statue of Masamune and an observation deck offering panoramic views of Sendai city.
Zuihoden Mausoleum
This is the mausoleum of Date Masamune, where you can enjoy the magnificent architectural beauty of the Momoyama period. Approximately 20 minutes by car from Tosho-ji Temple.
Osaki Hachimangu Shrine
This shrine, designated a National Treasure, was built by Date Masamune. It’s approximately a 20-minute walk from Toshōji Temple.
Sendai City Museum
This museum exhibits items related to the Date family and historical materials from the Sendai Domain. It’s beneficial for understanding the historical background of Toshōji Temple.
Points to Note When Visiting Toshōji Temple
Dress Code and Manners
When visiting a temple, please dress appropriately. Especially when entering the main hall, revealing clothing should be avoided.
Basic Manners for Visiting a Temple:
- Bow when passing through the temple gate
- Walk quietly within the temple grounds
- Clasp your hands together in prayer at the main hall
- Remember that this is private property
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring (March-May): Fresh green pine trees and cherry blossoms
- Summer (June-August): Deep green temple grounds and tranquility amidst the sound of cicadas
- Autumn (September-November): The beauty of autumn leaves and the crisp autumn air
- Winter (December-February): Snow-covered temple grounds and the serene winter atmosphere of a Zen temple
Estimated Time Required
- Temple grounds visit only: 20-30 minutes
- Visit including temple stamp: 30-40 minutes
- Thorough sightseeing: Approximately 1 hour
- Visiting all five temples of Kitayama: 2-3 hours
Summary
Toshōji Temple is a venerable Rinzai Zen temple with a history spanning over 700 years. Its deep connection to the Date family, its role as one of the Kitayama Gozan (Five Mountains of Kitayama), and the Zen spirit that has been passed down to the present day evoke a sense of tranquility and historical weight in visitors.
When visiting Sendai, be sure to visit Toshōji Temple, walk along the red pine-lined approach, and experience the serendipitous atmosphere of this Zen temple. Visiting other temples in conjunction with the Kitayama Gozan pilgrimage will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the history of the Date family and the culture of Sendai.
Toshōji Temple, a place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern society and find peace of mind, is a precious spiritual oasis for both Sendai residents and tourists.
