Myōhō-ji, Buddhist temple in Horinouchi, Suginami, Japan
Myōhō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Horinouchi, Suginami, featuring multiple buildings including a main hall, ancestral hall, and gates decorated with traditional architectural details and intricate carvings. The structures display the classic proportions and carefully crafted elements characteristic of Japanese temple design.
Originally established as a Shingon Buddhist convent, the temple transformed into a Nichiren Buddhist institution between 1615 and 1624 under priest Nikkyō's leadership. This conversion marked a significant shift in the site's spiritual direction and established its lasting identity.
The temple functions as the head temple of the Nichiren Buddhist sect, serving as a spiritual center where visitors can observe ceremonies and rituals throughout the year honoring the sect's founder. The place remains active in the daily religious life of its community, offering glimpses into how this Buddhist tradition is practiced today.
The temple sits about 15 minutes walk from either Shin-Koenji or Honancho stations on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line. This central location makes it easy to visit while exploring the wider neighborhood.
The Iron Gate, built in 1878, blends Japanese and Western architectural styles and holds designation as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. This structure reveals how the temple adapted to modern influences during a period of rapid change in Japanese society.
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