Jōkōji Temple

Journey back to 1393. Witness the birth of Zōjō-ji Temple, a prominent Jōdo-shū Buddhist temple nestled in the heart of Tokyo. Zōjō-ji Temple wasn’t always located where it stands today. Originally known as Kōmyō-ji, it resided in Kaizuka, present-day Kōjimachi. In 1393, under the guidance of Yūyo Shōsō, it embraced the Jōdo school and relocated, eventually finding its home amidst the bustling city. Zōjō-ji Temple shares a deep connection with the Tokugawa clan. Six Tokugawa shōguns rest within the Taitoku-in Mausoleum on the temple grounds. This connection elevated Zōjō-ji to become a powerful institution during the Edo period. It oversaw religious matters for the Jōdo-shū sect in the Kantō region. The temple complex once boasted over 120 buildings. Tragically, many were lost to fires, natural disasters, and the air raids of World War II. Today, the Daiden (great hall), rebuilt in 1974, stands as a testament to the temple’s resilience. Amidst the modern structures, a historical gem remains. The Sangedatsumon, the main gate, stands tall. Constructed in 1622, it proudly holds the title of the oldest wooden structure in Tokyo. Passing through this gate is said to free individuals from the three passions: greed, hatred, and foolishness. Within the temple grounds lies a poignant garden, the Sentai Kosodate Jizō. Here, rows of stone statues represent unborn children. Parents adorn these statues with clothing and toys, offering solace and remembrance. Zōjō-ji continues to thrive as an active temple. It serves as the main temple for the Jōdo-shū sect and a seminary for priests and novices. It stands as a symbol of endurance, a blend of history and modernity, in the vibrant city of Tokyo.