文殊寺

Monnji temple is a Tendai Buddhist temple in Midori Ward, Saitama, nestled among residential buildings with traditional wooden architecture featuring curved roofs. The structure displays extensive Buddhist design elements throughout, from the exterior ornamentation to the interior spaces.

The Tendai school of Buddhism originated on Mount Hiei in the 8th century and later spread throughout Japan. This temple represents that tradition and reflects how the school developed in the Saitama region over time.

Local people gather here during seasonal festivals and Buddhist ceremonies that follow Tendai practices. The temple remains an active center where the community comes together throughout the year.

The temple opens daily from sunrise to sunset, allowing visitors to participate in meditation sessions or observe Buddhist ceremonies. Early morning visits are ideal, as the surroundings are quieter and you can explore the space more peacefully.

The temple safeguards a collection of Buddhist scriptures and religious artifacts documenting centuries of Tendai practice in the region. This collection offers insights into the local religious history in ways that differ from broader national patterns.