Remembered as the Tanuki Temple, Tamonji is more than just a place of worship. Sumida, the special ward where Tamonji stands, retains an atmosphere of old Tokyo. Much of Sumida was rebuilt after World War II. But Tamonji survived.
Tamonji is a Buddhist temple dedicated to the god Vaiśravaṇa. It was founded long ago around 957 to 961. Tamonji was re-established here between 1573 and 1593. The thatched-roof gate was built after a fire in 1718. Tamonji stands as Sumida’s oldest surviving structure.
Tamonji holds memories of the war. You can see a steel frame from the Asakusa International Theater. Gaze upon a tree trunk burned in the 1945 bombings. This was found in Nishi-Nippori in 1991. A statue of Kannon honors war victims. Kannon is the goddess of mercy and peace.
The temple has a legend about yōkai. These are supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore. Tamonji is nicknamed “Tanuki Temple” for its connection to raccoon dogs.
Long ago, the area teemed with yōkai. A monk named Bankai wanted to banish them. He founded Tamonji blocking the tanuki’s grotto. The tanuki harassed Bankai. They even appeared in his dreams as a giant Ōnyūdō.
Bankai prayed to Vaiśravaṇa. The god sent an envoy to stop the tanuki’s mischief. The next morning, villagers found the tanuki dead at the gate. Bankai felt pity. He built a tomb for the tanuki. You can still find it at Tamonji alongside tanuki statues.
The story of Tamonji is a blend of history and myth. It’s a place where ancient legends meet the realities of war. Here at Tamonji we can reflect on the past. We can appreciate the temple’s resilience. It stands as a testament to Tokyo’s enduring spirit. Tamonji invites you to discover its unique charm.