Did you know that Bando No.29 Sen-yo-ji temple is also known as Chiba-dera? We are standing before one of the oldest and most revered temples in the Chiba region. Bando No.29 Sen-yo-ji temple is a Shingon Buddhist temple. Its mountain name is Kaijō-san.
Tradition holds that Bando No.29 Sen-yo-ji temple was founded in 709. This makes it one of the oldest temples in this area. Archaeological digs support this founding date. They found old roof tiles dating back to the mid-8th century. Also discovered were 12th-century sutra containers. Small blue-white porcelain vessels were also found.
In 1160 disaster struck Bando No.29 Sen-yo-ji temple. Lightning ignited the temple grounds and burned it to the ground. Chiba Tsunetane rebuilt the temple in 1192. Minamoto Yoritomo ordered the reconstruction. However the rebuilt temple was smaller than the original. The Chiba family continued to support Bando No.29 Sen-yo-ji temple.
Until the Meiji period locals gathered at Bando No.29 Sen-yo-ji temple on New Year’s Eve. They voiced their discontent with the city administration mixed with gossip. This often led to loud laughter known as “Chiba-warai”.
During the Pacific War air raids severely damaged the Bando No.29 Sen-yo-ji temple complex. Entering the temple from the south you’ll pass through the Niō-mon gate. This gate features two guardian deities. To your right observe the towering Ginkgo tree. It is estimated to be 1000 years old. Locals call it Ōichō meaning “Great Prince and Enkel Tree”. Further behind stands the Daishidō hall. This hall is dedicated to the temple’s founder.
The main hall the Hondō was rebuilt after World War II. It was designed to reflect its past glory. A large cemetery is part of the grounds. Behind the main hall you can find the Ryūzō-jinja Shrine.
Before the temple gate on private land stands a copper lantern. It is decorated with plum and bamboo designs. An inscription indicates it was made in 1550. The Hara family a branch of the Chiba family donated it. Today this important cultural asset is housed in the Tokyo National Museum.
Senyoji Temple is the 29th temple on the Bando Kannon pilgrimage. This pilgrimage includes 33 temples in the Kanto region. Monk Gyoki founded it in 709. The temple’s main image is the Eleven-Headed Kannon. The ancient ginkgo tree stands 27 meters tall. Its circumference is 10 meters. It is said to have been planted when the temple was founded. This tree is designated as a Prefectural Natural Monument.
So as we conclude our visit to Bando No.29 Sen-yo-ji temple remember its long history. Think about its resilience through fires wars and social changes. It remains a vital spiritual center in Chiba.