“A bell rings” echoing the start of a journey. This is not just any bell. It is the ‘sending bell’ of Yada-dera Temple also known as Yada Jizo. We stand before Yada Jizo. This temple holds a significant place in Kyoto’s spiritual landscape.
Yada Jizo’s story began long ago in the early Heian period. It started as a detached temple of Yada-dera Temple in Yamato Province now Nara Prefecture.
Legend says that Monk Manjue met Jizo Bosatsu. This meeting inspired the creation of the original Yada-dera Temple. Over time Yada-dera Temple moved. It finally settled here in 1579 by order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
The main deity here is Daijuku Jizo. It is a standing figure about two meters tall. Legend says that Monk Mankei encountered the living form of Jizo. He then carved the statue to resemble the Jizo he met. People call it ‘Substitute Suffering Jizo’. It embodies Jizo’s role in rescuing souls from hell.
Look closely at the temple’s bell. This is no ordinary bell. It’s a ‘sending bell’. On August 16th people ring this bell. They are sending their ancestors’ spirits back to the afterlife.
The ritual connects to the welcoming bell at Rokudo Chinno-ji Temple. The great bonfires of Daimonji then guide the spirits. This tradition is an essential part of Kyoto’s Obon season. It marks a time of remembrance and respect for ancestors.
During winter solstice on December 23rd Yada Jizo offers Kabocha. It is a squash feast. After a service visitors receive boiled squash for free. Eating Kabocha on this day is said to prevent colds and strokes. It is also a way to relax during the busy end-of-year period.
Also consider the unique Nui-gurumi charms. The temple staff handcrafts these. They bring good fortune in relationships safe childbirth and good health. People come from all over Japan to get these charms.
Yada Jizo is more than just a temple. It is a place of deep spiritual meaning. It is a place of tradition and community. As we leave remember the bell’s echo. It is a reminder of the enduring connection between the living and the departed. It is a reminder of Yada Jizo’s compassion for all beings.