Hidden away near Sensoji Temple stands Komagata-do Hall a small but significant Buddhist temple. Its unassuming exterior belies a rich history deeply entwined with Asakusa’s past.
Komagata-do Hall isn’t just any temple. Some believe it marks the original location of Sensoji Temple’s main gate. Another legend paints a more vivid picture. It tells of two fishermen who hauled a statue of the Bodhisattva Kannon from the Sumida River in 628 AD. This miraculous event is said to have sparked the founding of Sensoji Temple itself. The village headman recognizing the statue’s sacred nature dedicated his life to Buddhism. He transformed his home into what eventually became the grand Sensoji Temple we know today.
Komagata-do Hall’s position beside the Sumida River played a crucial role. Throughout Japan’s medieval period pilgrims arriving by ferry would first land here. They’d offer their respects before continuing to Sensoji Temple. Interestingly the temple’s orientation changed. Until 1742 it faced east overlooking the river. Subsequent rebuildings shifted its gaze westward. Its most recent renovation was completed in 2003.
Today Komagata-do Hall houses a unique image the Bodhisattva Bato-kannon. This Kannon is depicted with a horse’s head. Horses being the primary mode of transport in ancient times Bato-kannon became the deity of traffic safety. This unusual form gave rise to the name komagata meaning “horse-shaped”. This also lent its name to the small district where the temple initially stood between Komagata Bridge and Umaya Bridge.
Komagata-do Hall opens its doors on the 19th of each month allowing visitors to see the Bato-kannon statue. Its own annual festival is held on April 19th. So if you are in Asakusa and want a glimpse into a quieter side of Asakusa’s history. Make sure to visit Komagata-do Hall a small temple with a big story to tell.