Goma fire rituals. These are the heart of Fukagawa Fudo Temple. This temple is a Tokyo branch of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple. It is loved as Fukagawa’s Fudo-sama since the Edo period.
Founded in 1703, Fukagawa Fudo Temple has a rich history. Its main hall was moved from Chiba in 1892. It became the oldest wooden building in Tokyo’s Koto ward. The original hall was destroyed during World War II.
Today, the current main hall was built in 2011. It stands covered in black and gold Sanskrit letters. Inside, discover the unique treasures of Fukagawa Fudo Temple.
Let’s talk about the highlights. The temple’s exterior is unique, covered in mantras. Inside, the Prayer Corridor is lined with crystal figures of Fudomyo. These figures represent Fudō-Myōō, the God of Justice.
Imagine the scene during the Goma fire rituals. Wooden sticks burn as taiko drums beat loudly. Visitors can join in prayer for free. The temple holds these rituals five times a day. You can experience it at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. There is an additional ritual on the 1st, 15th, and 28th of each month at 7 p.m.
This fire-burning ritual purifies guests. Cedar sticks burn, and the smoke washes over you. The ceremony lasts about 30 minutes. Powerful drums boom, and chanting fills the air. A sense of zen washes over you. The fire nourishes the god’s strength to fend off evil. Remember photography is prohibited.
Inside the main hall, find the Fudomyo-o statue. It was made by the famous sculptor Sawada Seko. The prayer gallery holds 10,000 small crystal Fudomyo-o figures. Discover the room of wooden god carvings as well.
The second floor holds the Shikoku O-Henro. This tribute represents the 88 Shikoku Temple Pilgrimage. LED lights illuminate the effects. Praying here equals the 1,200-kilometer pilgrimage.
On the fourth floor, admire the ceiling painting. Nakajima Chinami created the Dainichi Buddha.
Near Fukagawa Fudo Temple is Ninjo Fukagawa Goriyaku Dori. This shopping street is packed with visitors on the 1st, 15th, and 28th of each month.
Fukagawa Fudo Temple is more than a temple. It is a vibrant center of faith. The sounds of drums and the sight of flames create a powerful experience. It is a place for peace, reflection, and connection.