Flickering lanterns guide our path toward Shinganji. This temple has a history of over 400 years. Prepare to delve into its rich heritage. Shinganji, also known as Mori Temple, stands as a serene landmark in Tokyo.
Shinganji belongs to the Jodo sect of Buddhism. It was founded in 1608.結城秀康 Yūki Hideyasu established it as a place to enshrine his mortuary tablet.
Let’s talk about Yūki Hideyasu. He experienced a turbulent life. He was born in 1574. He died in 1607. His mother, OMan no Kata, was one of Ieyasu’s concubines. She caught the attention of a senior retainer. That retainer was 本多重次 Honda Shigetugu. Hideyasu was discreetly moved to Honda Shigetugu’s residence. Hideyasu’s first meeting with his father was when he was three years old. Hideyasu was later adopted by 豊臣秀吉 Toyotomi Hideyoshi at the age of 10.
After Hideyoshi’s death, Hideyasu joined his biological father. He was not named Ieyasu’s successor. He became head of the Yūki clan in Echizen Province through marriage.
Before his death Hideyasu instructed 万世和尚 Banzei Oshō to build a temple in Edo. It should serve as his memorial. Banzei Oshō was old. He passed on the task to 清誉存応 Seiyo Zonō. Seiyo Zonō founded the temple in 1608.
Shinganji became 北沢八幡北沢八幡神社別当寺 Kitazawa Hachiman Shrine’s auxiliary temple. The name Shinganji was derived from Hideyasu’s Buddhist name. That name was 霊光院殿盛巌道悦大居士 Reikoin Denden Shingan Dōetsu Daikoji.
The main hall houses the 阿弥陀如来 Amida Nyorai statue. Hideyasu’s mortuary tablet is also there. The Tokugawa family crest adorns the buildings. It signifies Shinganji’s connection to the Tokugawa clan.
Until the early Showa era, the descendants of the Matsudaira family, visited Shinganji annually. They were deeply connected to Hideyasu. They were greeted at the long entrance hall. Lacquered dishes with the hollyhock crest were prepared for them.
Shinganji’s Takaido Mizu-Kake Fudo is famous. The temple also has the “Awashima Hall”. This hall is associated with healing rituals. A signboard “Kasama no Kaji” still hangs on the temple gate.
Note the main hall. It was rebuilt in 1964. Also admire the large ginkgo tree within the grounds. It is said to be over 400 years old. In 1984, Shinganji was selected as one of Setagaya’s top 100 views. It was given the name “Mori Temple of Awashima’s Fire”.
Shinganji provides a glimpse into Tokyo’s past. It is a place for reflection and appreciation. As we conclude our visit to Shinganji, remember its history. It is a blend of family legacy and spiritual devotion.