How does a temple almost 600 years old sound? That is the story of today’s stop. Welcome to the 神護山常久寺 or Joukyuuji Temple.
神護山常久寺 stands as a beacon. It reflects Tokyo’s rich cultural tapestry. The temple’s history is long. However, its current location is relatively recent.
Let’s journey back. We explore the 神護山常久寺 Temple’s origins. Precise records are missing. It is believed to be about 600 years old. This estimation comes from inscriptions. These are on a wooden plaque. The inscription dates back to 1422.
Originally, the temple was located near the 多摩川 or Tama River. It stood by the 常久村 or Joukyuu Village. The river flooded. It destroyed much of the village. 神護山常久寺 moved to 甲州街道 or Koshu Kaido road. Later it moved again. This move was due to city requests. Finally, it settled in its present location.
Once upon a time, lightning struck 神護山常久寺. It damaged the main hall. The fire destroyed the principal image of 不動明王 or Fudo Myoo. Amidst the destruction a new Fudo Myoo statue appeared. It was found beneath the floor. Believers think people hid the statue for safekeeping.
Interestingly, 神護山常久寺 shares its grounds. It shares them with 常久八幡神社 or Joukyuu Hachiman Shrine. Temples and shrines rarely share space. 神護山常久寺 and 常久八幡神社 protected the village. They also protected the land.
The temple’s 山号 or sangou is 神護山 or Jin go san. It means “protecting gods mountain.” This name reflects its role. It protects the local deities. Many temples share this 山号. These temples have ancient ties to their land.
神護山常久寺 served as a school. It was called 常久学舎 or Joukyuu Gakusha. It fulfilled this role in the early Meiji era.
The chief priest is dedicated. He tailors his communication. He tries to meet the eye level of those visiting 神護山常久寺. He maintains detailed records. He notes interactions with parishioners. These records span over ten years. He even notes things like whether they brought small children. This helps him offer personalized support.
神護山常久寺 offers 永代供養墓 or Eitaikuyou. These are memorial services. They provide a final resting place. This is especially for those without family. 神護山常久寺 built these tombs in 2014. They address concerns. Some families worry about the future of their graves.
神護山常久寺 also organizes group visits. These are to other temples. The chief priest plans these trips. They visit places like Hase-dera Temple. They also visit 久能山東照宮 or Kunouzan Toushouguu Shrine.
The temple is known for cleanliness. The priest learned from Disneyland. He believes a clean environment deters people. It deters them from littering.
The chief priest wants to remain approachable. He wants to be sincere. He strives to connect with parishioners. He is dedicated to preserving 神護山常久寺.