Hidden amongst the residential streets of Mukoh City lies the serene Senpukuji Cemetery, affiliated with the historic Senpukuji Temple. Senpukuji Temple itself, nestled in the eastern part of Mukoh City, near Kyoto’s southern district, boasts a history stretching back over 1200 years. The temple, recently renovated, showcases beautiful woodwork, reflecting its enduring significance. Senpukuji Temple is also known as Midera, a name deeply connected to the Imperial family. This connection stems from the early Heian period when the Chief Abbot Shunjyo adopted Chinese Buddhist practices, marking the temple’s renaming after clear water sprung from a corner of the grounds.
The present temple structure, however, isn’t the original. Senpukuji Temple was initially established in 794 by Emperor Kanmu. He moved the capital from Nagaoka-kyo to Heian-kyo (present-day Kyoto). The principal image enshrined at Senpukuji is the Rokkaku Kannon (Deer Skin Kannon) statue. Senpukuji also houses a cemetery about one kilometer from the main temple grounds. This cemetery welcomes new burials and even offers a gift certificate worth 10,000 yen for those who choose Nomiishi Sekizai for their tombstones.
Senpukuji has faced its share of trials. Records indicate a devastating fire in 1711 that destroyed the main hall and numerous scriptures. Although the details remain shrouded in mystery due to the loss of these documents, the temple was later rebuilt. It stood for 290 years before succumbing to age and the elements. The current temple structure, now adhering to modern building codes, was completed in October of 1918.
Even amidst these transitions, Senpukuji continues to serve its community. It offers eternal memorial services, performing Buddhist rites three times a year – during the spring and autumn equinoxes and during Obon. For those seeking a final resting place, Senpukuji Cemetery remains open to new interments, a testament to the temple’s enduring presence across the centuries.