Serene Gyokuhōji Temple stands before you. Its history stretches back to 1599. Founded near Edo’s bustling port it moved to its current location in 1635. This was during the Edo period. The temple’s mountain number is Yabusaka Yama. Its founder was the priest Kankō Nyoraiku.
Gyokuhōji Temple is a Buddhist temple. It’s located in Mita Minato Ward Tokyo. It is known for its Okeshiroi Jizo a white-painted stone statue. This Jizo is in the temple grounds. Legend speaks of a priest who discovered the statue. It was buried near an old stone bridge.
The priest noticed the bridge’s mud was unusually white. He investigated. He found the white-painted Jizo. The Jizo was covered in mud and grime. The priest cleaned it. He was surprised to see the statue’s beautiful white paint. He decided to leave it uncovered. He wanted people to see its beauty.
People still visit Gyokuhōji Temple to see the Okeshiroi Jizo. They believe it offers beauty and healing. Many women visit the Jizo particularly. The Jizo has a unique charm. It’s an almost luminous white. Some say it’s a bit unsettling. It has a sense of mystery.
Within Gyokuhōji Temple’s grounds is a stone statue. It is dedicated to the late Kitahara Yoshie. She was a famous singer. She died in a tragic plane crash in 1985. Her remains are buried near the statue. The statue shows Yoshie Kitahara. It depicts her short life. She had a big impact on Japan’s cultural landscape. Gyokuhōji Temple’s statue is a symbol of remembrance and respect. It stands as a poignant tribute.