Was it destiny or chance that brought us here before the \u8fa8\u8ca1\u5929\u9577\u5efa\u5bfa Stele? Perhaps a bit of both.
\u8fa8\u8ca1\u5929\u9577\u5efa\u5bfa stands as a Shingon Buddhist temple in Fushimi. Its mountain name is Toko-san. The temple’s principal image is the eight-armed Benzaiten. Uniquely, it is the only temple in Kyoto with Benzaiten as its main deity.
Let’s delve into the story of \u8fa8\u8ca1\u5929\u9577\u5efa\u5bfa.
In Hideyoshi Toyotomi’s era Fushimi flourished. It served as a political hub. However, Fushimi Castle’s demolition in 1619 led to the town’s decline.
Takebe Masaakira the 13th Fushimi magistrate sought to revitalize Fushimi. In 1699 he developed Nakashojima. He improved transport by opening Horikawa River. To further this revival, he relocated buildings from Joshakuji Temple to the present site. He founded a new temple. Combining “Ken” from his name with “Cho” for longevity he named it Chokenji. This marked the temple’s beginning. Thereafter, it became a prayer site for Fushimi magistrates.
Interestingly, Joshakuji Temple was revived in the Meiji era as Izumiyama Temple.
The main hall houses the eight-armed Benzaiten. This statue dates to the late Kamakura period. Benzaiten embodies music wealth wisdom and longevity. She is a hidden statue. It is unveiled only from New Year’s Day for fifteen days. In the Muromachi period the statue was enshrined in Fushimi-Dono.
Look closely at the grounds of \u8fa8\u8ca1\u5929\u9577\u5efa\u5bfa. You will discover a Maria lantern. This stone lantern dates back to the Edo period. It was created during the ban on Christianity. The lantern’s base has an image of Mary. Christians secretly prayed here.
Also, note the Benzaiten-style lantern. Takebe Masaakira dedicated it in 1699.
\u8fa8\u8ca1\u5929\u9577\u5efa\u5bfa also has a bell tower. It once announced the time to the Sanjikkokubune boats. It also served the Fushimi townspeople.
Fushimi’s famous water flows here. It is known as Kamaisu.
The temple held Fushimi’s Benzaiten Festival. It was one of southern Kyoto’s three great festivals. However, it ended in 1951.
The temple holds a cherry blossom festival in April. A weeping cherry tree called “Itozakura” blooms early.
Chokenji offers blessings. These include fortune wisdom and wealth.
Riverboats once protected by the temple. Geisha prayed for skill improvement.
Today, the red Chinese gate is the prominent characteristic of the \u8fa8\u8ca1\u5929\u9577\u5efa\u5bfa.
Remember \u8fa8\u8ca1\u5929\u9577\u5efa\u5bfa for its unique blend of history. Recall its cultural significance. Keep the story of Takebe Masaakira alive.