Whispers of history surround us. This is Rinshoin Karatachi Temple. A place steeped in centuries of tradition. It stands as a testament to faith and resilience.
Rinshoin Karatachi Temple boasts a rich history. It began as Tentaku-ji Temple in 1624. Founded by the influential Lady Kasuga no Tsubone. She was one of the most powerful noblewomen of 17th-century Japan. The third Tokugawa shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu generously donated land and even his father’s Edo villa. This became the temple’s living quarters.
Initially led by Tsubone’s nephew. He soon retired due to illness. Isen Shoryu a virtuous prelate became the next abbot in 1630. He is considered the founding abbot of Rinshoin Karatachi Temple. In 1634 Tsubone received Buddhist ordination. She took the name Rinshoin Den Ninen Ryogi’ni Daishi. The temple’s name changed to Rinshoin after Tsubone’s death in 1643. It’s her Buddhist name. Tokugawa Iemitsu further supported the temple. He donated an estate that yielded 300 koku of rice annually. That’s 45000 kilos a year.
Isen Shoryu’s life was equally remarkable. Born in 1565 he trained under renowned Zen masters. After extensive travels he served as priest at several temples. He ultimately received the imperial title Zen Master Honjaku Juko. Two years after his death.
Lady Kasuga no Tsubone’s story is captivating. She served as wet nurse to Tokugawa Iemitsu. She played a crucial role in his ascension to shogun. She was also instrumental in establishing the oku the women’s quarters at Edo Castle. A story tells of her unwavering devotion. When Iemitsu fell ill with smallpox she prayed to a deity. She vowed to never take medicine again if he recovered. He did. True to her word she remained without medication for the rest of her life. Her grave lies within the Rinshoin Karatachi Temple grounds. The gravestone has holes. This was by her request. She wanted to continue watching over the land.
The temple’s original property was enclosed by a karatachi hedge. This type of spiny citrus tree gave the temple its nickname. Urban development gradually eliminated the hedge. Yet the temple stands strong. A serene oasis in the heart of Tokyo. A place to find peace and reflect on its rich history. Rinshoin Karatachi Temple is a testament to faith devotion and the enduring spirit of Japan. A place where wishes are said to come true.