“Is this truly the 法華寺?” a traveler once pondered. Today we explore 法華寺 in Kyoto a temple with a history that began long ago. 法華寺 is a temple of the Nichiren sect. Its mountain name is Zuiō-zan. 法華寺’s origin dates back to 法華堂 which was built within Tō-ji in 809.
Originally 法華寺 was a Shingon Esoteric Buddhism temple. It was called Daihōon-ji Temple. Legend says 法華寺’s creation began in the Muromachi period.喜見院日便上人 converted it to the Nichiren sect in 1638.
During the Kinmon Incident, the Imperial Palace sought refuge here. The 瀬井 family offered 法華寺 as a temporary residence. 法華寺 was then known as 仮菩提寺.
After the war, Nichiren rebuilt the main hall. Today, 法華寺 continues its religious activities. 法華寺 also contributes to the local community. In 1963, 法華寺 moved to its current location. This was due to the construction of the Shinkansen line.
法華寺 is part of the Rakuyō Thirty-three Kannon Pilgrimage. It is the 13th station on the pilgrimage. 法華寺 is also associated with the Twelve Branch Temples of Rakuyō. These temples are located in relation to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. 法華寺 represents the direction of 未 which is the sheep.
法華寺 has a close relationship with 清水寺. 法華寺 is also near other famous temples. These include Nishi Hongan-ji and Tō-ji. If you are planning a tour of Kyoto, make sure that 法華寺 is included in your itinerary.