“Magic jewel”. Ever heard those words whispered about Hosenji? This Shingon Buddhist temple holds a story stretching back to the late 11th century. Today we will uncover some of the secrets of Hosenji.
Hosenji stands a short walk from Nakano-sakaue Station. Take a moment to appreciate its presence. While the buildings you see are post-war reconstructions, the spirit of Hosenji remains timeless. World War II air raids destroyed the original structures. This temple rose again.
Now imagine Minamoto no Yoshiie, a warrior from centuries ago. He was on his way to war in the Tohoku region. He sought a place for his Fudo Myo-O statue, a protector. Then the local deity Inari Daimyojin appeared. The deity gifted him a magic jewel and told him that this jewel is a rare treasure. Yoshiie was told to make it his helmet so that his military luck will be good. The deity then transformed into a white fox and vanished. This is said to be the origin of Hosenji’s name.
Let’s talk about Setsubun Day on February 3rd. Hosenji hosts a unique event. It features a monk warrior parade and a fire ritual called saito-goma. Sohei were monk warriors that existed until the 17th century.
Notice the Sanmon, Hosenji’s main gate. It houses Nioh statues. These guardian deities are common at Buddhist temples. The Hondo is the main hall dedicated to Fudomyooh. This figure defeats evil with force and fire. The Dai-shoin serves as the temple office and gathering space. These buildings were rebuilt in 1992 with wood.
Also observe the Sanju-no-to. It is the three-storied pagoda. Inside, you will find statues of Dainichi Nyorai. Shingon sect considers him the universe’s ultimate being.
Mieido enshrines Kukai. He was the founder of the Shingon sect. Kukai lived from 774 to 835. In front of the temple office, there is a stone garden.
Take a look at the fountain. Small millers once operated around here. To commemorate them, their stone mortars were piled up to create this fountain.
Hosenji also has ties to other figures. Aoi Chuji built the Daishido Hall. He was the former president of Marui Company. Tomita founded Hosen Gakuen for Buddhist studies in 1927. He was the 50th generation abbot of this temple.
Consider the bones of a huge serpent kept as secret treasures at Hosenji. River water can be poured over the bones for an oracle about coming rain.
Hosenji is part of several pilgrimages. These include the Gofunai 88 Henro Temples in Edo and the Pilgrimage to 36 Fudo Temples in Kanto.
Hosenji offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s past. It showcases resilience and spiritual devotion. Its story of war, deities, and rebirth continues to resonate today. Remember the magic jewel and the white fox. They represent the enduring spirit of Hosenji.