Whispers of a sacred cycad tree a thousand years old beckon you to Myokokuji Temple. This isn’t just any temple. Myokokuji Temple stands as a testament to resilience. It has survived fires wars and the passage of centuries. Founded in 1592 by Nichiko Shonin it’s a head temple of the Nichiren Sect.
Myokokuji Temple’s history is intertwined with that of a remarkable cycad. Oda Nobunaga a powerful warlord attempted to transplant this ancient tree. He moved it to Azuchi Castle. However legend says the tree cried out each night longing to return to Myokokuji. Nobunaga enraged ordered the tree cut down. The tree bled. It writhed like a snake. Even the fearless Nobunaga was unnerved. He returned the tree to its rightful home. Nichiko Shonin prayed for it. A god appeared promising to ease childbirth hardship and poverty. This god Ugatoku-ryujin became the temple’s guardian. The cycad is now a national natural monument.
Myokokuji Temple also bears witness to the Sakai Incident of 1868. French sailors landed in Sakai. They caused a disturbance. Tosa clan samurai protecting Myokokuji Temple intervened. A tragic clash ensued. Thirteen were killed. Japan was forced to pay compensation. Twenty samurai were ordered to commit seppuku. Eleven performed seppuku before sunset in front of Myokokuji Temple. The remaining nine were spared. They were exiled to Tosa. These samurai though they died in service of their country were not allowed burial on temple grounds. Their remains are kept at nearby Hojuin Temple.
Myokokuji Temple is more than just stones and wood. It is a living narrative of faith resilience and the enduring power of legend. It whispers stories of ancient trees vengeful spirits and courageous samurai. Myokokuji Temple is a place of historical significance and spiritual depth. It is a place to pause reflect and absorb the weight of history. Explore its sacred grounds. Discover its hidden treasures. Let the legacy of Myokokuji Temple resonate within you.