“Did you know that \u5584\u7167\u5bfa isn’t just a temple but a resilient piece of history?” Let’s step inside and uncover the story of this serene sanctuary.
\u5584\u7167\u5bfa is officially known as “Seizan Kyoeiin \u5584\u7167\u5bfa”. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Tokyo. Founded in 1625, this temple has been a sanctuary for locals for almost 400 years.
The story of \u5584\u7167\u5bfa begins with Aoyama Yoshishige. He was also known as Aoyama Kuroda Hyoei Masashige. His dedication led to the temple’s establishment as a branch of Zojo-ji Temple in Shiba, Tokyo. Kakujo Zensho Ryuzui Shonin became its first head priest.
One of the temple’s treasures is a seated statue of Faran Shonin. It is said that Zensho Shonin carried this statue when he came to the Kanto region.
\u5584\u7167\u5bfa’s main deity is Amida Nyorai. This statue was created in 1627 by Zensho Shonin. The statue is about 90cm tall and made of wood. It shows Amida Nyorai in a welcoming gesture.
In 1998, the 21st head priest, Tatsuo Shonin, renovated the statue. During this restoration, ancient documents were found inside. These writings revealed that the statue had been repaired twice before. The documents noted that Kakujo Zensho Ryuzui Shonin repaired it first. Later, the 14th head priest, Gokyo Shonin, also restored it in 1849.
The temple bell of \u5584\u7167\u5bfa has its own story. During World War II, it was taken for the war effort. In 1955, the 20th head priest, Shodo Imakawa, and the parishioners rebuilt it. The bell was crafted by a Living National Treasure, Masamitsu Katori. Unusually, the bell has four striking points instead of the usual three. The inscriptions on the bell are all in verse form. Gyodo Nakamura of Anseiji Temple in Isesaki wrote them.
As you enter \u5584\u7167\u5bfa, notice the five Buddha statues to your left. Yoshishige’s son, Yoshihiro, built these in 1658. They honor the Aoyama family. Originally in the cemetery center, they were moved in 1990 during cemetery renovations. The central statue of Dainichi Nyorai has an inscription. It mentions Yoshihiro and his intention to create the statues for the Aoyama family’s spirits. The statues represent the five wisdoms of esoteric Buddhism.
\u5584\u7167\u5bfa has moved several times throughout its history. It was initially established in Shiba. Later, it relocated to various places including Hatchobori and Minami-麻布. Finally, it moved to its current location.
The main hall you see today was rebuilt in 1913. Although it survived the war, it was renovated in 1981 due to aging.
Today, \u5584\u7167\u5bfa continues to be a place of spiritual solace. It is led by the current head priest. He also directs the Jodo sect’s research institute and serves as a trustee. He is on the board of a school corporation. His journey included thermal engineering studies and a career at Mitsubishi Research Institute.
\u5584\u7167\u5bfa stands as a reminder of Tokyo’s past. It embodies resilience and spiritual continuity. Its story reflects the community’s devotion and the enduring power of faith. Take a moment to appreciate the history within these walls.