Hōonkō-ji, Buddhist temple in Wakayama, Japan.
Hōonkō-ji stands as a Buddhist temple housing statues of Amida Nyorai and Monk Hōnen, featuring traditional architecture that reflects the simplicity and humility characteristic of Kamakura period religious buildings.
The temple was established in 1207 during Emperor Go-Toba's reign to honor Monk Hōnen, founder of Pure Land Buddhism, after local villagers cared for him when his vessel was stranded during a storm near the oil-sea beach.
The temple hosts the annual Kenkyō-taishi ceremony from November 22 to 24, drawing numerous followers who participate in prayers, chanting, and communal activities centered around the teachings of Hōnen and Pure Land Buddhism traditions.
Visitors must make prior reservations and can reach the temple by taking Nankai Railway to Misa Kikoen Station followed by an 18-minute taxi ride, or by bus to Koshiomi Sumiyoshi with a 12-minute walk.
The temple preserves a large prayer bead called Hyakumanben Da-Nenju, crafted by Hōnen himself from leftover materials of his own robes, demonstrating the devotion and craftsmanship associated with the site's spiritual heritage.
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