Guide
Myoryoji is a Nichiren sect temple located in the Kaminose area of Minami Alps City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Historically, this temple held significant prestige, being revered as 'Ura-Minobu' (the hidden Minobu) due to its high status alongside Minobu San Kuon-ji Temple. While many structures were lost during the Great Fire of Showa in 1949, the temple's most remarkable treasure, the 'Rinzo'—a massive, rotating bookshelf—survived the flames and remains a testament to the past. The temple is also a sacred site for those seeking blessings for safe childbirth, child-rearing, and the longevity of descendants through devotion to Kannon.
The temple was founded by the mother-and-child duo Myoryo Nichibutsu and Nichiryo, direct disciples of Nichiren Shonin. A major turning point in its history occurred in 1949 when a massive fire destroyed much of the temple complex, yet the surviving structures tell a story of resilience and historical value. Legend also suggests the temple served as a site for prayers regarding the birth of the Tokugawa Shogunate's descendants, making it a vital spiritual pillar for the local community for centuries.
The most striking feature of Myoryoji is the 'Rinzo,' the rotating bookshelf that escaped the fire. This massive, rotating structure is an incredibly rare architectural find that showcases the culture and engineering of its time. Visitors can also offer prayers to the Kannon deity, a patron of safe childbirth and child-rearing, within a tranquil and sacred atmosphere. The grounds also feature traditional Japanese architecture, including a grand gate (Shinmon) and a worship hall (Haiden), allowing you to experience the profound aesthetics of historical Japanese design.
Myoryoji offers a different beauty in every season. The most popular time to visit is during spring (late March to April), when the cherry blossoms—said to have been planted from branches of the Minobu San mountain—reach full bloom. The temple grounds are transformed into a vibrant, colorful landscape, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Additionally, in April, visitors may experience traditional ceremonies such as the 'Senbu-e Hojo' (Senbu-e Buddhist service), offering a glimpse into seasonal religious traditions.
This is a place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and find spiritual stillness. You can observe the unique Rinzo rotating bookshelf or engage in prayer for family well-being and safe childbirth. Walking through the temple grounds, which are harmoniously integrated with the surrounding natural environment, provides a deep sense of connection to traditional Japanese spirituality.
Located near the Fuji River and the foothills of the Southern Alps, Myori-ji is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. The area is ideal for travelers interested in historical-themed tours, such as walking the paths related to the legends of Nichiren Shonin. It is a perfect stop to include in a journey through the historic and scenic landscapes of Yamanashi.
When visiting, please respect the quiet and sacred atmosphere. As you may need to remove your shoes when entering certain buildings, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off, and bringing clean socks. If you wish to purchase amulets (omamori) or a temple stamp (goshuin), please ensure you have cash (Japanese Yen) ready. For photography, please be mindful of the sacred nature of the grounds and check for permission where necessary. Since some areas feature stone steps and uneven paths, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.