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Honenji Temple

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Did a samurai truly help found Honenji Temple? Here, nestled in Kyoto, stands Honenji Temple. It’s a tranquil place with a history as vibrant as the city itself. Honenji Temple belongs to the Jodo Sect, also known as the Pure Land Sect of Buddhism. This temple marks the 19th site on the Honen 25 site pilgrimage. It holds a special image of Honen, said to be maintained by Kumagai Nyudo. The story begins with a samurai named Naozane Kumagai, also known as Jiro Naozane Kumagai. Upon his return to the Kanto region, Naozane deeply desired an image of Honen for worship. His wish was granted with a statue carved by Honen himself. Naozane then founded Yukoku-ji Temple in his home of Kumagai. Later, he returned to Kyoto. In May 1197, he established Honenji Temple on his father’s former property in Nishikikoji, Higashinotoin-nishi. Honenji Temple holds several fascinating treasures. One of these is a statue of Honen Shonin. There’s also a unique lantern. Legend says it was crafted from the armor of Jiro Naozane Kumagai, connecting the samurai’s story directly to the temple. The temple’s history takes a dramatic turn with Emperor Gofushimi’s illness between 1299 and 1302. During his sickness, Honen appeared to him in a dream, advising him to recite the nenbutsu for recovery. Following this advice, the Emperor regained his health. He then located the image of Honen at Honenji Temple. Honenji Temple received the imperial designation ‘Gokurakuden’, highlighting its significance. It also received the imperial scroll ‘Kumagaisan’ from Emperor Ogimachi. Honenji Temple’s journey continued as it was relocated by Hideyoshi Toyotomi in 1591 to Teramachi Bukko-ji Temple. Finally, it found its current location in 1961. So, as you stand before Honenji Temple, remember the intertwining stories of the samurai, the emperor, and the revered Honen. They echo within these peaceful grounds, a testament to faith and history.

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