A weathered stone lantern stands silently. It has witnessed centuries of prayer at Myōkoku-ji Temple in Osaka. This isn’t just any temple. Myōkoku-ji is a significant Nichiren Buddhist temple. Its history is interwoven with the dramatic events of Osaka’s past.
Myōkoku-ji’s story begins long ago. It was established in 1592 by Nichiko Shonin. The temple has been rebuilt multiple times. A devastating fire destroyed it during the Summer War of Osaka in 1615. The Toyotomi forces burned it down. They falsely believed Tokugawa Ieyasu was hiding inside. Myōkoku-ji was rebuilt in 1628. World War II brought further destruction in July 1945. The current buildings are a testament to its resilience. They were constructed in the autumn of 1973.
A unique treasure resides within Myōkoku-ji. This is a magnificent cycad tree. It is over 1100 years old. Legend says Oda Nobunaga himself moved the cycad. He transplanted it to Azuchi Castle. However strange nightly sounds and an unnatural atmosphere disturbed the castle. The sounds begged for the cycad’s return to Myōkoku-ji. Nobunaga ordered the tree to be cut down. It is said the tree bled and looked like a snake. Even the fearless Nobunaga was frightened. He returned it to Myōkoku-ji. Nichiko Shonin prayed for it reciting 1000 Hokkekyo sutras. A dream revealed a guardian god. This god promised to ease childbirth alleviate hardship and bring happiness to the poor. This guardian god is named Ugatoku-ryujin. A hall was built to honor him. The tree became a national natural monument in 1923.
Myōkoku-ji is also linked to a tragic international incident. The Sakai Incident occurred in 1868. French sailors caused a disturbance. Samurai from the Tosa clan intervened. A clash resulted in the death of thirteen sailors. France demanded compensation. Twenty samurai were ordered to commit seppuku. Eleven samurai performed seppuku in front of Myōkoku-ji. The remaining nine were spared. They were exiled. These samurai died in service of their country. However their burial was not permitted on temple grounds. Their remains were taken to the nearby Hojuin Temple.
Myōkoku-ji Temple stands tall. It has survived war fire and international conflict. Its history is a blend of faith legend and tragedy. The temple remains a powerful symbol of resilience and devotion. It is a place where you can feel the weight of history and the enduring power of the human spirit. Take a moment to reflect on all that this sacred space has witnessed. And appreciate the quiet strength of Myōkoku-ji.