A storied Buddhist temple connected to Nichiren
Located on a hill in southern Tokyo, Ikegami Honmonji is a temple dedicated to the spirit of the famed Buddhist sage Nichiren. The Nichiren sect is a federation of four of the original Buddhist schools founded by the Japanese priest, who lived during the Kamakura period (1185–1333).
Don't Miss
- The Ikegami Honmonji Temple Oeshiki Ceremony, which attracts 300,000 people each year
- This temple still serves as training and living quarters for monks
How to Get There
The closest station is Ikegami Station on the Tokyu-Ikegami Line. The temple is a 10 to 15-minute walk or a short taxi ride from there.
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History
Erected where Nichiren died, this prominent temple is still the administrative headquarters of the Nichiren sect. On the temple grounds is an impressive five-story pagoda. Built around the 17th century in the Momoyama style of architecture, it's widely regarded as the oldest in the Kanto area.
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Marking Nichiren's ascendance
The temple attracts visitors year-round thanks to its stunning architecture and history, and cherry trees fill the surrounding area with pale pink blossoms during April. In mid-October, the temple hosts Ikegami Honmonji Oeshiki, the annual anniversary memorial festival to mark Nichiren's passing.
On the night of October 12 there is a parade along a two-kilometer route from Ikegami Station to the celebrated temple. Mando, which means 10,000 lanterns, is a rite during which some 3,000 worshippers carrying sacred lanterns draped with oversized decorations resembling beautiful cherry blossoms.
* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.