“A temple with many moves” I thought reading about \u795d\u8a00\u5bfa. This unassuming temple has moved locations several times throughout its history. Today we will explore the story of \u795d\u8a00\u5bfa.
\u795d\u8a00\u5bfa is a Buddhist temple of the Soto Zen sect. Its mountain name is Mount Mannen. The temple is located in Taito ward Tokyo. It is a short walk northeast from Tawaramachi Station. The temple’s main deity is Shakyamuni Buddha.
\u795d\u8a00\u5bfa was founded by Ota Dokan. It happened either in 1551 or 1556. The temple was originally built in what is now Chiyoda ward. That area was called “Shukugen village” at the time. This is how \u795d\u8a00\u5bfa got its name.
Later the temple was moved to its current location. In 1590 Tokugawa Ieyasu entered Edo. At that time the temple received the mountain name “Mount Mannen”.
\u795d\u8a00\u5bfa moved several times. Originally it was within the outer moat of Edo Castle. This was near the Wada Kuramon gate. Ota Dokan moved it in 1457 when building the castle. It was relocated in front of the Otemon gate.
In 1648 it moved to Umayabashi. After the Great Fire of Meireki in 1657 it moved again. It finally settled in its present location.
The temple buildings have a traditional design. But they incorporate modern elements. The main hall has tiled accents. The garden is a dry landscape style.
Ryozan Sonkyu Daisho founded \u795d\u8a00\u5bfa. He died in 1601. Chuko Kaiki Tetsushu Kyuyo Daisho also helped. He died in 1614.
The temple’s history is documented in local records. These include the “Asakusa Ward History”. It is also mentioned in “Temples and Shrines within the Government”.
\u795d\u8a00\u5bfa may seem like a simple temple. But its story reflects Tokyo’s dynamic past. Its multiple relocations mirror the city’s changes. Its blend of traditional and modern styles embodies Tokyo’s spirit. Today \u795d\u8a00\u5bfa continues to be a place of worship. It is a testament to the city’s resilience and evolution.