Guida
Located in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, Shitennoji (Soseizan Shitennoji) is a SOTO Zen sect temple with deep historical roots. The temple grounds are home to the Yakushi Nyorai statue, an Important Cultural Property preserved for over 1,000 years, and a majestic Sanmon gate dating back to the Edo period. Most recently, the temple has entered a new era with the establishment of the 'Reiwa Dai Kannon.' The combination of historic architecture, sacred cultural assets, and the serene atmosphere for Zen meditation offers visitors a profound connection to Japanese spirituality.
This temple holds a profound connection to Prince Shotoku, a legendary figure in Japanese history. Among its treasures is the Yakushi Nyorai statue, created in the Heian period following a prayer for healing by a woman named Monobe Misao; this statue has survived countless wars to reach the present day. The temple's history is also marked by the Sengoku-period warlord Todo Takatora, who rebuilt the temple as a memorial for his late wife, Kuhoin. Furthermore, the site contains the Sanmen Daikokuten, said to have been prayed to by Oda Nobunaga, and the grave of a figure believed to be Nobunaga's mother, making it a site deeply intertwined with regional history and faith.
The temple grounds are dotted with numerous precious cultural assets. A must-see is the Yakushi Nyorai statue and the statue of Prince Shotoku (produced during the Kamakura period), both of which are Important Cultural Properties representing the essence of Japanese Buddhist art. Additionally, the Sanmon gate, showcasing early Edo-period architectural styles, and the temple bell (Bonsho), designated as a cultural property of Tsu City, allow visitors to feel the weight of history. The recently completed 'Reiwa Dai Kannon' also draws attention as a new symbol of prayer in the modern era.
Shitennoji offers special Goshuin (temple stamps) that change with the seasons. For example, you may find designs featuring rapeseed flowers in spring, sunflowers in summer, or sweet osmanthus in autumn. On New Year's Eve, the traditional 'Joya no Kane' (bell ringing) ceremony is held to mark the end of the year. For a more peaceful experience, we recommend visiting in the early morning when the atmosphere is exceptionally tranquil and contemplative.
For those seeking to step away from daily life, the temple offers Zen meditation (Zazen) and sutra copying (Shakyo). Every Sunday morning, a Zazen session is held which is open to beginners; the program includes light exercises followed by meditation and a social tea gathering. Sutra copying can also be experienced through prior reservation. These activities provide a rare opportunity to practice traditional Japanese mental cultivation. Please note that special programs, such as Zazen with a tea ceremony, may vary by season and require advance confirmation.
Shitennoji is nestled within the rich natural beauty of Tsu City, Mie. The surrounding area is steeped in the history of Todo Takatora, making it an excellent base for a historical walking tour. You can explore the local culture alongside the historic streets and natural landscapes of Tsu City.
We recommend wearing modest and comfortable clothing when visiting. For activities like Zazen or sutra copying, comfortable clothing (such as athletic wear) is ideal. Please ensure you carry cash, as payments for Goshuin stamps and experience fees must be made in cash. As the temple houses many precious cultural assets, please follow all photography rules and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor to preserve the sacred environment.