Ren'ei-ji

Ren'ei-ji is a Buddhist temple in Aoi-ku featuring traditional Japanese architecture, with its main hall originally transferred from a subtemple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture. The complex preserves these historical structures for visitors to explore and experience the spatial arrangement of worship areas.

Founded in 1625 during the Kan'ei era by Buddhist monk Tenkai, the temple benefited from the Tokugawa shogunate's patronage through land donations. This early support from political rulers shaped its establishment and long-term stability.

The temple centers its spiritual life around Yakushirurikō Nyorai, the Healing Buddha, whose presence shapes the prayer space and daily worship practices.

The temple welcomes visitors interested in exploring its prayer spaces and experiencing the calm of the site at their own pace. Plan to visit during daylight hours and approach the temple grounds with respectful behavior and modest dress.

The temple houses a golden pagoda holding the preserved ashes of Indian independence leader Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose since 1945. This unexpected link between a Japanese temple and an Indian freedom fighter creates a rare historical connection on the grounds.