Can you imagine stepping back over 500 years? Let me tell you about Kofukuji Temple. This temple has stood as a pillar of faith and community in Hiroshima.
If you listen closely you may hear echoes of prayers from centuries ago at Kofukuji Temple. It is one of the larger temples in western Hiroshima. Its main hall impresses with its size. It measures thirteen ken on each of its four sides. The outer circumference has a vast space of one hundred eight tatami mats.
The temple’s history stretches back further. About 1280 years ago Gyoki founded Jiin Temple. This was the earlier form of Kofukuji Temple.
Fast forward to 1506. Something significant happened. The priest Kunyu of Jiin Temple embraced the teachings of Shinran Shonin. He transformed Jiin Temple into Kofukuji Temple. So Kofukuji Temple is over 510 years old.
Since then the temple has fostered deep connections. People from Hiroshima and beyond have come to Kofukuji Temple. It serves as a place of spiritual support for the people of Hiroshima. Many visit it.
When you listen to Buddhist teachings you are asked to lend your ear. By listening one contemplates the teachings. It makes you aware of your life’s path. The wisdom and compassion of Amida Nyorai guides you. Kofukuji Temple continues to be a place for learning. It fulfills its role as a sanctuary.
According to temple legend priest Gyoki visited Futakaichi in Hiroshima. People revered Gyoki as a Bodhisattva. It was about 1280 years ago. Gyoki founded Jiin Temple which is the former Kofukuji Temple. He built it in the area of Takai and Kuchiwada Village.
About 70 years later Kobo Daishi Kukai visited Jiin Temple. He was on a pilgrimage. He carved an image of the Bodhisattva Kokuzo. He named the mountain Hogyoku-san.
In 1506 priest Zenmu of Jiin Temple deeply embraced the teachings. He received an Amida Nyorai image. The temple’s name changed to Kofukuji. It shifted from the Shingon sect to the Jodo Shinshu sect.
In 1559 the second head priest Ryozai relocated the temple. It moved to Koyadani in Idaitamura. It became known as Koyadani Kofukuji Temple.
Then in 1580 the third head priest Ryoyo moved it again. This time it was to the current location in Itsukaichi.
During the Warring States period Kofukuji Temple remained devoted. It strongly upheld the teachings of Shinran Shonin. It became a stronghold for followers in Itsukaichi.
In 1600 Fukushima Masanori Lord of Hiroshima Castle issued an edict. He gathered the Jodo Shinshu temples in the castle town. Kofukuji Temple did not comply. It remained in its current location.
Kofukuji Temple cherishes its identity as a temple of Itsukaichi. It prioritizes local education. This is why Kofukuji Temple did not move. It has preserved traditions.
Today Kofukuji Temple stands as a testament to time. It is a symbol of spiritual devotion. The temple serves as a beacon of faith.