(Image by David Pursehouse via https://www.flickr.com/photos/mdid/3895656935/)
Sengakuji Temple is not only a historical site, but also a religious one. It belongs to the Soto sect of Zen Buddhism and is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple is an important place of worship for the local community and offers various religious services, such as morning meditation, sutra chanting, and zazen (seated meditation).
The temple also has a unique feature that visitors may not immediately notice. On the walls of the temple’s main hall, there are dozens of tiny plaques with inscriptions that look like graffiti. These plaques are called ema and are used for making wishes. Visitors write their wishes or prayers on the ema and then hang them on the walls. The ema are replaced periodically, and the old ones are burned in a traditional ceremony. It’s a fascinating and interactive way to participate in Japanese religious culture and make a wish for good fortune or health.
Sengakuji Temple and Pop Culture
(Image by DocChewbacca via https://www.flickr.com/photos/st3f4n/239572139/)
Another interesting aspect of Sengakuji Temple is its connection to pop culture. The story of the 47 Ronin has been adapted into various forms of media, including films, TV dramas, and manga (Japanese comics). The temple has become a popular pilgrimage site for fans of the story and is often featured in pop culture references. One example of this is the Hollywood film “47 Ronin,” starring Keanu Reeves, which was released in 2013. The film was based on the story of the 47 Ronin and included scenes filmed at Sengakuji Temple. The temple also collaborated with the film’s production team to create a special exhibition featuring costumes and props from the film.
The Famous Story Behind The 47 Ronin
The story of 47 Ronin was based on a group of samurai who carried out a famous act of revenge in the 18th century. The story begins in 1701, when Lord Asano Naganori of Ako, a province in western Japan, was insulted by the shogun’s court official, Lord Kira Yoshinaka. Asano drew his sword and attacked Kira, but failed to kill him. Asano was arrested and later ordered to commit seppuku, a form of ritual suicide. Following Asano’s death, his retainers became masterless samurai, or ronin. The most loyal of these ronin was Oishi Kuranosuke, who began to plan a revenge plot against Kira. Oishi and his followers spent years meticulously planning their attack, disguising themselves as farmers and merchants to avoid suspicion. On December 14, 1702, the 47 Ronin attacked Kira’s residence in Edo, now Tokyo, and killed him. They then turned themselves in and were sentenced to death for their crime.
(Image by Ashley Van Haeften via https://www.flickr.com/photos/wikimediacommons/16207116158/)
The story of the 47 Ronin has become a legendary tale in Japanese history, representing the virtues of loyalty, honour, and justice. The event is celebrated every year on December 14th, with visitors from around the world coming to witness the reenactment at Sengakuji Temple.
Wide Range of Cultural Activities and Events
Visitors to Sengakuji Temple can also participate in various cultural activities and events. The temple offers traditional tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons, and guided tours of the temple grounds. The temple also hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Setsubun Festival in February, the Obon Festival in August, and the New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing Ceremony.
The Setsubun Festival is a traditional event that celebrates the beginning of spring. The festival involves throwing roasted soybeans to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Visitors can also participate in the temple’s stamp rally, where they collect stamps from different areas of the temple grounds to receive a special prize.
The Obon Festival is a summer event that honours ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. The temple grounds are decorated with lanterns, and visitors can write messages on paper lanterns and float them in a pond. There are also traditional dance performances and food stalls selling festival treats.
The New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing Ceremony is a popular event where visitors can ring the temple’s bell to usher in the new year. The ceremony takes place on December 31st and draws large crowds of locals and tourists alike.
In conclusion, Sengakuji Temple is not just a historical site, but a living and active temple with a rich cultural and religious heritage. Its connection to the story of the 47 Ronin has made it a symbol of honour and loyalty in Japanese society, while its tranquil setting and beautiful architecture provide a peaceful escape from the busy city. The temple’s interactive ema, pop culture references, and cultural events make it a unique and fascinating destination for visitors to Tokyo.
More Information
Sengakuji Temple
2 Chome-11-1 Takanawa,
Minato City,
Tokyo 108-0074
Access
The temple is a few steps from Sengakuji Station on the Toei Asakusa Subway Line. Alternatively, you can walk there from Takanawa Gateway Station on the JR Yamanote Line in under ten minutes.
Admission
Free (Temple Grounds); 500 yen (Museum)
Opening Hours
Temple: 7:00 to 18:00 (until 17:00 from October to March)
Museum: 9:00 to 16:30 (until 16:00 from October to March)
No closing days