Beneath Tokyo’s sprawling cityscape lies a hidden sanctuary. That sanctuary is Jorenji Temple. We’re standing before the gates of Jorenji Temple also known as \u4e57\u84ee\u5bfa.
Jorenji Temple offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle. Its history stretches back to the early 15th century. The monk Ryoken Muteki founded it. He sought to spread Pure Land Buddhism. This was in a remote corner of Edo now Tokyo.
The temple quickly gained popularity. Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa donated land. It became a favored temple of the Tokugawa clan. Jorenji became one of the most prestigious temples in the area.
Historically, Jorenji Temple offered refuge during crises. Its priests performed burial rites. They did this for those who died during Edo-period famines. They also did it for victims of the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923.
After World War II, Jorenji’s leaders reflected on these disasters. They sought to build something offering hope and peace. The construction of a new expressway affected the temple grounds. In the 1970s, it was relocated nearby. The new temple reopened with a significant addition.
That addition was the Tokyo Daibutsu. It stands at 13 meters tall. The Tokyo Daibutsu at Jorenji Temple may not have the fame of Kamakura’s Great Buddha. But it offers solitude. That is something many larger tourist destinations don’t.
The Tokyo Daibutsu was enshrined at Jorenji Temple in 1977. It commemorates those who lost their lives in World War II. It also commemorates the Great Kanto Earthquake. The temple grounds provide a peaceful space.
Inside the gate are four statues. They are said to be guardians of the temple. You’ll also see the nearby Akatsuka Castle ruins. Successive shoguns of the Tokugawa regime designated Jorenji Temple as a shuinchi. This meant it was exempt from taxes.
Take a look around the precinct. You’ll spot the Tokugawa family crest. It is a triple hollyhock everywhere.
Just before the temple gate stands Enmado. That is the chamber of the god of hell Enma. Inside are statues of Enma. There is also Datsue-ba. She is known as the old woman who strips clothes off the dead. You’ll also see Jyuou. They are the ten judges of hell. Countless origami cranes are placed as offerings.
Walk up the stone steps. Pass through the temple gate. Two guardian statues glare down. You’ll find the giant Buddha on the right.
The giant Buddha statue’s head tilts forward slightly. This lets you see its eyes when you pray. Stand right below it. Stare up. You might feel overwhelmed by the Buddha’s freedom from distracting thoughts.
As you wander the temple grounds, find the Seven Deities of Good Luck. Notice the unique stone statues. Samurai Takatora Todo is said to have brought them from the Korean peninsula.
Jorenji Temple is a little out of the way. But it’s worth the journey. It’s a hidden gem that few people know about.
Remember Jorenji Temple. It is a place of refuge, remembrance, and quiet contemplation in bustling Tokyo.