“Temple of the Correct Fortune” is what Shofuku-ji literally means. It stands as a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple in Higashimurayama. This Tokyo treasure holds a rich history within its walls.
Shofuku-ji’s story begins in 1270 during the Kamakura period. Temple records show that a Jizo hall was built in 1278. Kamakura Regent Hojo Tokiyori sponsored it. Legend says Tokiyori fell ill on a hunt and a priest nursed him back to health. Grateful Tokiyori hired Kamakura builders to construct the Jizo hall.
There is some doubt about this story. Tokiyori died in 1263. However, official support from the Kamakura shogunate was important for temple construction. It is possible the temple was founded during the rule of Hojo Tokimune. He was Tokiyori’s son. He defended Japan against Mongol invasions.
The current Jizo hall was rebuilt in 1407. This information comes from an India ink inscription found in 1933. The inscription also says the temple has been dedicated to Jizo Bodhisattva since its founding. Shofuku-ji has largely remained in its original form since then.
The Jizo hall shows off new building methods. Japanese master builders perfected these during the Kamakura era. These techniques allowed for more strength elasticity and detail. They were superior to Chinese Korean or earlier Japanese methods. From the outside it looks like a two-story building with sharply upturned eaves. Inside it is a single open space. This effect comes from the lower roof mokoshi. This style is called Zenshuyo. You can see it at Shariden of Enkaku-ji in Kamakura. The upper roof’s curve is similar. The mokoshi of Shofuku-ji Jizo hall is covered in copper for preservation. The door opens inward.
Shofuku-ji includes key architectural innovations. Elastic Japanese cypress steel support chisels and decorative brackets are used. Cantilevers are also present. These innovations create a lightweight look. The curved hip roof open interior and upturned eaves contribute to this. The structure is sound against earthquakes.
Roofs were originally thatched. During repairs in 1933 the roof was changed to shingles. This restored it closer to the original design. Thin boards are piled and fixed with bamboo nails. This “Kokerabuki” style can also be seen at Katsura Imperial Villa and Kinkaku-ji.
The building was named a National Treasure on March 29 1952. Lay people can only enter once a year. This is during the Jizo-matsuri festival on November 3.
Despite a major rebuild in 1407 Shofuku-ji’s Jizo hall is a prime example of Kamakura architecture. It is remarkably intact. Although it is 50 kilometers from Kamakura the area was the northern edge of Kamakura’s defenses. This remoteness likely helped preserve it. Kamakura itself saw much destruction.
Shofuku-ji is also known as a place of healing. Locals believe in a tradition to help cure illness. Wooden dolls are kept outside the hall. When someone is sick a doll is taken to their home. Once the person recovers the original doll plus a new one are returned to the temple.
As you leave Shofuku-ji consider its legacy. It embodies architectural innovation cultural significance and enduring traditions. This temple truly represents a journey through time.