東漸寺

Nestled amidst ancient cedars and pines, Tohosenji Temple beckons. This serene sanctuary in Matsudo, Chiba, holds a history as vibrant as the autumn maples that grace its grounds. Tohosenji Temple was founded in 1481 by the priest Kyogetsu Unko. Originally located in Nemoto, the temple found its current home some sixty years later, during the Tenbun era (1532-1555). Tohosenji Temple’s story intertwines with that of the powerful Tokugawa clan. Designated as one of the Kanto Eighteen Training Temples under Tokugawa Ieyasu, Tohosenji flourished. Ieyasu, the founder and first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, embraced Buddhism and supported its growth in the Kanto region. This patronage elevated Tohosenji to a prominent position. Imagine the bustling temple grounds, a hub of religious and intellectual activity. Over twenty buildings stood within its walls, housing eight schools dedicated to various disciplines. From Buddhist teachings and Confucian classics to poetry and calligraphy, Tohosenji nurtured minds and fostered spiritual growth. This era of prosperity shaped Tohosenji into a renowned center of learning, attracting numerous students seeking enlightenment. Among its treasures is the enshrined portrait of Tokugawa Ieyasu, a testament to the temple’s close ties with the shogunate. The temple also houses the “Diary of Mizukubo Koshin,” a self-written account by Mizukubo Koshin, the second lord of the Tsurumaizaka domain. The temple’s fortunes changed with the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century. The abolition of feudalism and the subsequent disestablishment of Buddhism led to the loss of its vast lands and some of its buildings. However, the local community rallied to preserve Tohosenji, repurposing the remaining structures as a school for local children, which later became Kogane Elementary School. Despite facing adversity, Tohosenji Temple endured. Today, Tohosenji Temple stands as a symbol of resilience and community spirit. The main hall, bell tower, and several gates have been carefully restored. The Kannon-do, dedicated to the bodhisattva of compassion, welcomes visitors seeking solace and inspiration. The temple’s natural beauty, with its ancient trees and vibrant autumn foliage, continues to captivate. Every year, Tohosenji Temple hosts the Gyoki Matsuri, a festival honoring Gyoki, a revered Buddhist monk. This vibrant event draws countless visitors who come to experience the temple’s rich history and spiritual atmosphere. The temple’s serene grounds offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city. As you wander through the grounds, let the whispers of the pines and cedars transport you back in time, to a period of shoguns, samurai, and spiritual seekers. Tohosenji Temple is more than just a place of worship; it’s a living testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and the beauty of Japanese tradition.