“Another temple?” you might ask. Not just another temple. This is Narita-san Jorin-ji Temple. It stands as a testament to faith and history.
Narita-san Jorin-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple of the Soto Zen sect. It is located in Sumida Ward Tokyo. The temple’s story began in 1716. This was during the享保 Genna era.
A woman named Chiyo founded Narita-san Jorin-ji Temple. Chiyo served 安藤重博 Ando Shigekatsu. He was the lord of Takasaki Castle in Kozuke Province. Chiyo established the temple to pray for her lord’s well-being.
Narita-san Jorin-ji Temple is one of the few nunneries in the area. The second head priest was a nun. Her name was Jorin. Since then the temple has been led by female priests.
Jorin had a close relationship with the Owari Tokugawa family. Even today the temple treasures family heirlooms bearing the three-leaf hollyhock crest. This emblem signifies their connection.
Once upon a time there was a statue of Amitabha. It was created in 1661. It stood along the temple’s main approach. Now it resides at Shofuku-ji Temple nearby.
Narita-san Jorin-ji Temple is also known for a unique cultural asset. It is a handwritten record. It details the temple’s history and reconstruction. This valuable document offers insights into the temple’s past.
Today Narita-san Jorin-ji Temple continues to be a place of peace. It is a place of reflection. It is a place steeped in history in modern Tokyo. Its story echoes through the centuries. It connects us to the devotion of those who came before.