Here at Yōunji Temple bad luck is cut off. Good luck is tied. The temple’s name embodies this very wish. Yōunji Temple means a place that brings luck. Like the sun it warms people’s hearts. The name reflects the desire to be a place accessible to all. It welcomes both good and bad.
Yōunji Temple is a Nichiren sect temple. It is also known as the Yotsuya Okari. The temple was founded in the early Showa period. It is located in Shinjuku.
According to legend a priest named Nicchū. He of Renjuin Temple in Kujō. He founded Yōunji Temple. This was at the site of the Oiwa Inari. The Oiwa Inari is related to the Yotsuya Kaidan ghost story.
The story goes that in the Edo period. A play called Tōkaidō Yotsuya Kaidan became popular. Oiwa’s spirit was feared by the people. Yōunji Temple was erected on this site. It was meant to appease her spirit.
Inside Yōunji Temple is a statue of Oiwa. People come to pray to her. They seek to sever bad relationships. They also wish to foster good ones. There is also a well. The well is said to be connected to the legend. A memorial monument stands. It commemorates the rebuilding of the temple.
The main hall of Yōunji Temple was rebuilt. It used to be Yakushi-do Hall. This hall was originally built in 1757.
When you visit Yōunji Temple. You can purify yourself at the well. Then sever bad ties at the Mizukake Fudo. Pray for good luck at the Kokoro-negai-ishi. This order ensures that bad luck is cut off.
Yōunji Temple also offers omamori amulets. Also available are goshuin stamps. These can be purchased at the temple office. On certain days special goshuin are available. For example on Oiwa’s memorial day.
Each month Yōunji Temple holds a festival. It is called Oiwa sama Kaiun Kigan Sai.
Yōunji Temple is easily accessible. You can take the Marunouchi Line to Yotsuya-sanchōme Station. It is a short walk from exit 3.
Yōunji Temple provides solace and fortune. It is a unique blend of legend and spirituality. It is a must-see destination in Tokyo. It offers a chance to reflect. It also helps to improve one’s life.