“An otherworldly energy overhead.” That’s how one visitor described their arrival at Myofukuji. Myofukuji is a Nichiren Buddhist temple. It’s nestled in a residential area of Nerima Tokyo.
Founded in 850 Myofukuji boasts well-maintained grounds. Imagine feeling that same energy as you approach the outer gate. It is called sōmon. The temple has stood here for centuries. It has been a place of contemplation and community.
Let’s step through the second gate Niōmon. Notice the Kongōrikishi or Niō. These are a pair of frightful figures. They stand guard on either side. Misshaku Kongō glares from the right. His mouth is open voicing the “A” sound. This is the first sound in the Devanagari. Naraen Kongō stands to the left. His mouth is closed. He utters the final sound. Birth and death are symbolized here. They use the basic elements of language like alpha and omega. All existence is contained within.
Myofukuji houses a shōrō. This is a small tower. It holds a bonshō. The bonshō is a Buddhist bell. The current copper bell was made in 1664. It was created by recasting an older one. The oldest bonshō in Japan dates back to 698. It’s known as the Okikicho bell. It is still in use at Myōshin-ji in Kyoto. The bonshō’s sound can summon the dead. It also calls the living. It indicates the time and sounds an alarm.
Inside Myofukuji you’ll find the main hall. It was built in 1866. A statue of Nichiren stands here. He was a 13th-century Buddhist priest. He formed his own branch of Mahayana Buddhism. Some say he was outspoken and often angry.
The kuri served as the residence for temple monks. It was completed around 1701. A vermilion mailbox stands in front of it. This connects the monks to the outside world.
Myofukuji offers a serene escape from Tokyo’s bustle. It invites reflection. It provides a connection to centuries of Buddhist practice. Take a moment to absorb the atmosphere.