山科別院長福寺

Chogyo, a young novice escaping the bustle of Kyoto, found solace at Yamashina Betsuin Chofuku-ji. The year was 1478. Imagine Yamashina Betsuin Chofuku-ji then, a humble temple rising from the grassy plains of Yamashina. Chogyo, drawn by the charisma of Rennyo Shonin, became a vital part of the temple’s reconstruction. Four years prior, Rennyo Shonin, after spending four years in Yoshizaki, decided to relocate and rebuild the temple. His followers, like Chogyo, labored tirelessly, finally completing the main buildings in 1483. Yamashina Betsuin Chofuku-ji became the heart of a growing community, the “temple town,” taking shape around its sacred grounds. This tranquil era ended abruptly in 1532. Amidst the chaos of the Sengoku period, Yamashina Betsuin Chofuku-ji was attacked and burned to the ground. The temple was later moved to Osaka. The original site was abandoned for a time. Centuries passed. During the Edo period, under the guidance of the 17th abbot, Shinnyo Shonin, plans were made to return to Yamashina. In 1736, a new temple hall was constructed, north of the original location of Yamashina Betsuin Chofuku-ji. The temple continued to evolve. In 1787, further renovations took place. The main hall, guest house, and priest’s quarters were rebuilt. A bell tower and teahouse were added within the temple grounds. Today, Yamashina Betsuin Chofuku-ji stands as a testament to resilience and faith. It not only serves as a place of worship but also houses the Otani Specialized School. This school is a crucial training ground for Otani sect teachers. A short walk southwest of the temple you can find the mausoleum of the 8th Rennyo Shonin. This is a place revered by many as the “ancestral home of Shin Buddhism.”