Is it true that enlightenment can be found in the most unexpected corners? Here at Daiun-ji, in Tokyo, that notion takes a tangible form. Daiun-ji is a serene Buddhist temple of the Tendai sect. It enshrines Daikokuten, the god of wealth.
Upon entering Daiun-ji, you will be greeted by a multitude of statues. These are not just any statues. They are the Shichi-fuku-jin. The Shichi-fuku-jin are the seven lucky Gods of Japan. These deities have been popular since the Edo period. They are often depicted sailing on their treasure ship, the Takara-bune.
However, the Shichi-fuku-jin are not the only statues at Daiun-ji. This temple is particularly famous for its Gohyaku-Rakan. The Gohyaku-Rakan are statues of the five hundred disciples of Buddha. These statues memorialize the victims of a devastating fire in 1772. Historians believe that the fire started at Daiun-ji.
Amidst the assembly of statues stands Toroke Jizo. “Toroke” means “melt.” Its face and arms appear to be melting. Legend says that a fisherman pulled this statue from the sea. Toroke Jizo is believed to have the power to melt away people’s worries.
You might notice the Mizuko Jizo statues. These Jizo are believed to rescue babies from hell.
Look for the statue of Yakushi Nyorai. Yakushi Nyorai is the Buddha of Healing. It is said that placing a piece of gold leaf on the statue at the spot where you need healing can cure ailments. Gold leaf is available for purchase.
Daiun-ji also houses the Doso-shin. This is the Traveler’s Guardian Deity. It protects travelers and villages from epidemics and evil spirits.
Do not miss the tower of Koshin. It was built in the year of the monkey. The “shin” in Koshin means monkey. The statue of three monkeys embodies a belief of the Koshin faith. These monkeys represent “Mizaru” which means “see not”, “Iwazaru” which means “say not”, and “Kikizaru” which means “hear not.”
If you look closely, you might even spot a Kappa. Kappa are Japanese water demons that look like turtles. This one is holding a fish. Are they friends, or is it lunch?
Daiun-ji is a small temple. But it is full of fascinating statues and stories. It offers a unique glimpse into Japanese folklore and religious beliefs. Take your time to wander through the temple grounds. Let the statues speak to you. Perhaps you will find some enlightenment here.