Of camellia fruits, Seiga Shonin, a high priest from the Western Regions, extracted oil. This makes Aburayama Kannon or Shokakuji Temple a special place. We’re standing before the magnificent Shokakuji Temple also known as Aburayama Kannon.
Shokakuji Temple’s history began in the Tenpyo era. Seiga Shonin carved a thousand-armed Kannon from a white camellia tree. This goddess of mercy was enshrined here. The temple was originally named Senpukuji Temple. It once housed hundreds of monks. Fire destroyed most of it during the Warring States period. It was rebuilt and renamed Shokakuji Temple in 1694. Many still call it Aburayama Kannon.
Inside the main hall rests a wooden seated statue of Kannon. This statue dates back to the Heian era. The government has designated it an important cultural property.
Hibari Kannon Hall is also on the temple grounds. This hall honors Hibari Misora. She was a singer and national icon from the Showa era. You can insert coins to hear her songs.
An unusual stone gate marks the temple entrance. A single trainee monk built this gate in the Meiji era. He used ancient Korean techniques in the Silla style.
The kayu-biraki or porridge opening event happens every February 1st. This ritual predicts the year’s crop fertility. They base the prediction on azuki porridge left in the main hall for two weeks. Tsunamasa Kuroda revived this tradition in 1695.
Shokakuji Temple had a dark episode in 2009. A thief stole the Buddha statue from the main hall. Thankfully it was found three months later. Shoe marks suggested multiple thieves broke in by cutting the padlock.
The honorary title of Shokakuji Temple is Higashiaburayama. It’s a Rinzai temple in Jonan-ku Fukuoka. Mount Abura and the temple got their names from the camellia oil extraction.
Take in the beauty of the red maples in late fall. Listen to the birds sing. Shokakuji Temple offers peace and history. It is a unique cultural experience.