Gaudy colors and lavish ornaments demand attention. This is Inariyama Kōmyō-in. It is an unexpected jewel tucked away in Noborito. Prepare to step into a world where history and artistry intertwine.
Inariyama Kōmyō-in is a branch temple. It belongs to the venerable Ōzenji Temple in Asao-ku, Kawasaki. The temple is associated with the Toyoyama School of Shingon Buddhism. Its history is long.
According to temple tradition, the priest Genku founded it. This happened in the late Muromachi Period. That was between 1336 and 1573. Sadly, fires ravaged Inariyama Kōmyō-in several times during the Edo Period. The Edo Period lasted from 1603 to 1868. These fires destroyed many temple records.
The principal image here is special. It is a wooden statue of Fudō Myōō. Fudō Myōō is also known as Acala. He stands with two servants. This triad is called Fudō Sanzon. Fudō has a flaming halo. He holds a hōken sword in his right hand. A snare is in his left. Two children stand beside him. They are Kongara and Seitaka. This statue is an important historical monument of Kawasaki City.
In esoteric Buddhism, Fudō Myōō is significant. He is the terrifying incarnation of Dainichi Nyorai. His role is subduing evil. He typically has an irate expression. These statues are quite small. They are less than 20 centimeters. Yet they carry great historical weight. An inscription reveals their origin. A monk named Hōgyoku made them in 1553. He lived in Noborito. The statues commemorated the 33rd anniversary of his parents’ death. Repairs occurred in 1844. The pedestal and colors likely date from this restoration.
Don’t miss the white elephants. Find them on the inner side of the Sanmon gate. These elephants represent Gautama Buddha. It depicts his incarnation before his birth to Queen Maya. Such figures are rare in Japanese temples.
Visiting Inariyama Kōmyō-in offers a unique glimpse. It showcases Buddhist art and history. Despite its turbulent past, the temple stands. It remains a testament to faith. It is a cultural landmark in Kawasaki.