Do you know that the formal name of Takahata Fudoson Temple is Mount Takaosan Myooin Kongoji? Now let’s delve into the captivating story of Kongoji Temple.
Kongoji Temple is a Shingon sect Chizan school temple. It enshrines Fudo Myoo as its principal image. While the exact year of its founding remains unclear some accounts attribute it to Gyoki during the Nara period. This would place its establishment before the Taiho era that lasted from 701 to 704 AD.
In the early Heian period the esteemed Kobo Daishi Ennin constructed a Fudo hall atop Mount Takao. He did this at the behest of Emperor Seiwa enshrining Fudo Myoo within. Ever since then Kongoji Temple has flourished as a sacred site dedicated to Fudo.
The current Fudo hall dates back to 1342. It was relocated to the mountainside and rebuilt. It along with the Niomon Gate stand as significant cultural properties.
Originally enshrined in the Fudo hall were the imposing Fudo Sanzon statues. These sculptures date back to the late Heian period. Today they reside in the inner sanctuary of Kongoji Temple.
Kongoji Temple stands as one of the three major Fudo temples in the Kanto region. This is alongside Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in Chiba and Oyama-dera Temple in Kanagawa.
Once you step past the shopping strip you will find another gate. This is known as the Hozomon Gate or Niomon Gate. It was originally built in 942. Damaged and rebuilt several times it stands as a historical monument.
During your visit to Kongoji Temple you will discover shops that offer a taste of Japanese culture. These shops have preserved the temple’s culture for centuries. Here you can find popular Japanese snacks and antiquities. Many visitors enjoy these treats while touring the temple. Restaurants also offer traditional Japanese flavors.
Although Sensoji Temple is not Kongoji Temple, it also has some interesting facts. Sensoji Temple pays homage to goddess Kannon the Bodhisattva goddess of mercy. According to legend two brothers found the statue of Kannon while fishing in the Sumida River. They built Sensoji Temple to honor the goddess. Sensoji Temple is Tokyo’s oldest temple. It welcomes millions of visitors each year.
Sensoji Temple hosts the Sanja Matsuri one of Tokyo’s largest festivals. The festival celebrates the fishermen brothers and the landlord who founded Sensoji Temple. Coin tossing is a popular tradition at Sensoji Temple. People toss coins into a large box. They bow twice clap twice and make a short prayer.
The rebuilding of Sensoji Temple after World War II symbolized Tokyo’s rebirth. Donations from across the country helped reconstruct the Main Hall.