Deep in conversation with Kobo Daishi a question arose. What makes Hongaku-in special? Hongaku-in stands as a testament to both resilience and spiritual devotion. This temple is located in Akishima Tokyo. It marks a significant landmark at Hachioji. It lies at the crossroads of the modern-day Route 16 and Ome streets.
Founded in 1578 Hongaku-in holds a venerable position in the Tendai tradition. Its principal image is a statue of the revered Ryogen Daishi. Ryogen Daishi is also known as Gansan Daishi. The statue is a self-carved masterpiece. Ryogen Daishi made the statue himself.
Originally enshrined at Yokokawa in Mount Hiei, the statue faced destruction. It was almost destroyed in 1571 by Oda Nobunaga’s forces. A devoted monk rescued it. The monk was none other than the venerable monk Keishin. After years of wandering, the statue found its home. It was finally enshrined at Hongaku-in in 1578.
For over 400 years Hongaku-in has been a beacon of faith. It stands in the western part of the Tokyo area. People call Ryogen Daishi “Odaishi-sama”. People visit the temple seeking blessings. They come from far and wide throughout the seasons. It is known for its great benefits. People pray for various reasons. They pray for averting disasters. They also pray for recovery from illness.
Hongaku-in’s Odaishi-sama is affectionately known as “Akishima Daishi.” The first day of the year is celebrated on January 2nd and 3rd. This event is famous. A Daruma Market takes place at this time. It is one of the earliest in the country.
During the late Edo period Yokohama opened its port. This increased the export of raw silk to Europe and America. Route 16 became a crucial silk road. It connected Yokohama to various regions. These regions included Hachioji and Kawagoe. This boom led local farmers to produce silk. They also crafted paper Daruma dolls as a side business. These dolls were sold on the first day of the Odaishi festival. This marked the beginning of the Akishima Daishi Daruma Market.
Over the past 30 years Hongaku-in has undergone significant renovations. These include the construction of several important structures. The Bunko Hall was built in 1973. It enshrines the Monju Bosatsu. In 1978 the Great Bell. It features Ryogen Daishi and his mother. In 1983 the inner hall was erected. It houses the Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu. A new main hall was completed in 1994. It embodies the architectural style of Tendai Esoteric Buddhism.
Other additions include the Water Deity Hall. It was built in 1994. The main gate was built in 1995. The west gate was built in 1997. An octagonal hall was built in 1998. The former main hall now serves as the Daikokuten Hall. The octagonal hall now serves as the Benzaiten Hall. These structures honor the temple’s founders. They preserve the faith of Ryogen Daishi.
Hongaku-in continues to thrive. It hosts various events throughout the year. These include New Year’s prayers. There is also the Daruma Market. People also celebrate the Setsubun festival. The temple provides solace and spiritual enrichment.
So, as we stand before Hongaku-in remember its story. It is a story of faith. It is a story of resilience. It is a story of community. It echoes through the centuries. It continues to inspire all who visit this sacred place.