“Did you know that Wanpukuji Temple was once a Shingon sect temple?” I’m thrilled to share the story of Mounizan Hoshuin Wanpukuji Temple. This temple has a rich history. It transformed over time into what we see today.
Wanpukuji Temple is currently a Soto Zen Buddhist temple. Its formal name is Kaiganzan Muryojuin. Legend says it was founded between 1190 and 1199. It started as a Shingon sect temple. The founder was Kajiwara Heizo Mitsukane Tokimasa.
In 1320 the temple faced a major setback. A fire destroyed the temple. The sixth Kajiwara lord, Saemonnosuke Tokiaki, relocated. He moved to Magome.
In 1534 a priest named Meido Bunryu of Kamakura revitalized the temple. He converted it to the Soto Zen sect. This marked the beginning of Wanpukuji Temple as we know it today. The main deity is the Amitabha Triad.
The Amitabha Triad statues are remarkable. The central Amitabha Buddha statue is 90 cm tall. The attendant bodhisattvas, Kannon and Seishi, are 60 cm tall. These statues are made of bronze. Kannon and Seishi wear jeweled crowns. These statues are considered ancient. They are said to have been brought from the Three Kingdoms period. The technique used is similar to that of the Kondo statues at Horyuji Temple.
According to the “Shinpen Musashi Fudoki Draft,” the statues were originally in China. The monk Fukuu Sanzou possessed them. In 751 they were brought to Japan. They came into the possession of the founder of the Taira clan, Kokuga. Later Kajiwara Tokimasa inherited them.
Wanpukuji Temple is located in Ota-ku, Minami-Magome. The temple’s phone number is 03-3771-2025. The fax number is 03-3771-2140. Please feel free to contact them with any questions.
The temple also offers spiritual experiences. You can try meditation and sutra transcription. A unique urban-style cemetery is also available. It is called “Ohatsuraishi Reien.” Wanpukuji Temple was featured on BS Asahi and Fuji Television in January 2025.
The temple has a rich past. It blends ancient traditions with modern practices. It continues to be a place of spiritual significance. Its story reflects resilience and transformation. The Mounizan Hoshuin Wanpukuji Temple welcomes all.