Question: What if I told you a temple in Tokyo was founded by a villager? Welcome to Toenji Temple. It is a serene escape in the heart of Tokyo.
Toenji Temple is formally known as Tozan school’s Buddhist temple. It is named Iohzan Engyoji. This temple holds a special place in the community’s heart.
Our story begins in 1573. A villager named Handayū laid the foundation for Toenji Temple. The monk Kaihō later opened the temple. Toenji Temple is the 19th station of the Edo Thirty-three Kannon Pilgrimage.
The temple’s main deity is Yakushi Nyorai. This is the Healing Buddha. A statue of Holy Kannon is enshrined here too. It was erected during the Edo period.
During the time of Ieyasu Tokugawa, the main hall was rebuilt. It was thanks to the donation of the Miura clan. They had moved from Kyushu. The hall was renovated in 1932.
Inside the temple grounds stands the Kannon Hall. It is a significant stop on the Edo Thirty-three Kannon Pilgrimage. Here lies also a stone statue of Jizo Bosatsu. It dates back to 1796. It has been restored in recent years.
Near the graveyard entrance you can find the Thirteen Stone Pagodas. They were moved from Myohoji Temple. Cultural assets include stone monuments. They are dating from 1344 and 1386.
Near Toenji Temple stands the Go-Fudo. People still gather there to worship.
According to the “Shinpen Musashi Fudoki Kō”, the temple grounds are 1550 tsubo. The main hall is seven bays wide and six bays deep. It enshrines a standing statue of Yakushi. The statue is one shaku in height. Kaihō is known as the founder.
The temple also features a Kannon Hall. The statue is six suns and three minutes tall.
Toenji Temple is not just a historical site. It is a living testament to faith and community. It embodies Tokyo’s rich cultural heritage. Take a moment to appreciate the temple’s beauty. Think about its lasting impact.