常在寺

Gazing upon Jōzai-ji Temple, one can almost feel the weight of centuries whispering through the rustling leaves. Jōzai-ji, nestled in the Setagaya ward of Tokyo, holds a captivating tale of love, betrayal, and unwavering faith. Founded in 1506, Jōzai-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Nichiren sect. Its full name is Hōjuzan Jōzai-ji. The temple grounds are enclosed by a sturdy fence. They house not only the main temple building but also an underground garden, offering a hidden oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city. A more recent addition to Jōzai-ji is the five-storied pagoda. Built in 2015, it is a smaller replica of the one at Kyōfuku-ji Temple, scaled to one-sixth of the original’s size. This modern structure stands in harmonious contrast to the historical heart of Jōzai-ji. The temple’s origin story is steeped in local legend. It intertwines with the tale of a loyal retainer named Jōen, who served the Setagaya lord, Yoshikage. Jōen, deeply devoted to the teachings of the Nichiren sect, founded a small temple. Yoshikage’s distrust of Jōen and his faith grew, fueled by Jōen’s dedication to the Nichiren priest, Nichiei. This suspicion led to a tragic confrontation. Jōen, caught in a web of misunderstanding, fled the castle. Facing imminent capture, he chose to end his life rather than betray his beliefs. His daughter, distraught by her father’s fate, cast a statue of Kishimojin into the temple well and tragically took her own life near a nearby mound known as Jōenzuka. Later, the temple priests retrieved the Kishimojin statue and enshrined it. The well gained a reputation for its healing waters, especially effective against burns. People from far and wide sought its curative properties until 1940. Adding another layer to the story, records also link a woman named Jōen to the nearby Shōrin-ji Temple. However, the dates associated with Shōrin-ji clash with those of Jōzai-ji, creating a historical discrepancy. Visiting Jōzai-ji today, you can still sense the echoes of this poignant story. The temple is not merely a place of worship but also a living testament to the enduring power of faith and the tragic consequences of mistrust. Near the entrance, a refreshing hydrangea bush welcomes visitors. It is said that watering its leaves brings good fortune. A weathered milestone stands within the grounds as well, a silent witness to the passage of time and a reminder of the temple’s long and layered history.