Is it possible to count to infinity? At Jōmyōin Temple here in Tokyo, you might just feel like you can. This temple is known for its staggering collection of Jizo statues.
Jōmyōin Temple offers a serene escape in Tokyo’s Yanaka district. It is a place where history and spirituality intertwine. This off-the-beaten-path temple provides a tranquil experience.
The temple is famous for its thousands of Jizo statues. Jizo is the guardian of travelers. Jizo also protects young children and the weak. It is said that there are 84000 Jizo idols here. This immense number represents “infinity”. Although in reality there are around 25000. These statues create a unique and awe-inspiring sight.
Jōmyōin Temple’s history dates back to 1666. It began as a residence for a priest. This priest belonged to the nearby Kaneiji Temple. Kaneiji Temple was the Kantō headquarters of the Tendai school of Buddhism.
Later in the Edo Period, Jōmyōin became a temple in its own right. The main gate was added in 1723. In 1876, during the Meiji Period, the Jizo statues gained prominence. The collection dramatically increased.
A large bronze Jizo image stands in the temple grounds. It dates from 1906. This statue is dedicated to those who died in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905.
Jōmyōin Temple even appears in the 2009 film version of “Norwegian Wood”. This movie was directed by Tran Anh Hung. It is based on the novel by Haruki Murakami.
Once, the Hechima Kuyo festival was held here. It honored the sponge cucumber also known as luffa. People believed it aided those with respiratory problems.
The garden of Jōmyōin Temple is aligned with multiple rows of Jizo statues. These differ from the usual representative statuettes that wear red or white bibs to protect children. Here, the statutes are enthroned in a stone frame. It is customary to pick up pieces of broken rock. Place them close to the nearest statue.
Before becoming a temple, Jōmyōin was a priest’s residence from Kaneiji Temple. Today, it still stands in its shadow.
Visiting Jōmyōin Temple is free. It is open from 9 am to 5 pm. The temple is near Nippori Station and Uguisudani Station. These stations are on the Yamanote Line. Nezu Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line is also close.
As you leave Jōmyōin Temple, remember the countless Jizo statues. They stand as guardians and a symbol of infinite compassion. Take a moment to reflect on the temple’s history. Feel its serene atmosphere. Carry its message of peace with you.