Guida
Tanjoji (Tanjoji) is a significant Jodo Shu Buddhist temple located in Kume Minami, Kume District, Okayama Prefecture. This temple is renowned as the birthplace of Honen Shonin, the founder of the Jodo Shu sect. Its mountain name is Tochikosan. The main deity is Enko Daishi (the posthumous title granted to Honen by the Imperial Court). The temple grounds are home to numerous treasures, including the Mikado-do, which is designated as a National Important Cultural Property, as well as several Okayama Prefecture-designated cultural assets and historical sites. It serves as a vital sacred site where visitors can trace the footsteps of Honen Shonin.
The origins of Tanjoji date back to the year 1193 (Kenkyu 4). Kumagai Naozane, a warrior from the Bando region, became a disciple of Honen and entered the priesthood under the name Rensei. Driven by his devotion to Honen, Rensei established this temple on the former site of the residence of Honen's father, the local official Kuime no Oshiryo. Because of this connection, the temple was once called 'Tanjoryu-ji,' a name that is still preserved on the plaque of the Mikado-do today. This location has been a center of deep religious devotion for centuries as the birthplace of the great master.
The temple grounds are dotted with many items of immense historical value. First, the Mikado-do, a National Important Cultural Property, was rebuilt in 1695 (Genroku 8) after two previous destructions. Other notable structures include the Sanmon (mountain gate) built in 1716 and the Mukui-bashi bridge (a Registered Tangible Cultural Property) built in 1920 over the Katame River. Furthermore, the temple houses precious art and statues, such as the 'Shucho Amida Sanzon Raigo-zu' (embroidered Amida triad painting) from the early Muromachi period, a wooden Amida Nyorai statue from the Kamakura period, and a massive Great Buddha statue cast in 1745 that stands 6.42 meters tall and weighs 450kg.
A major highlight is the 'Honen Shonin Go-ryoshin Go-on Nijugo Bosatsu Tendoke Kuyo-e' held on the third Sunday of April every year. This is one of Japan's three great traditional memorial services (Nen-kuyo). Visiting during this time allows you to witness a traditional ritual that has been preserved since the Muromachi period. During daytime visits, you can observe the historical architecture and stone structures in a serene environment, perfect for learning about Japanese religious history.
Visitors can study Japanese Buddhist architecture and history through the observation of the temple's many cultural assets. The Mikado-do and the various statues, including the Great Buddha, are essential for understanding the historical context of the region. Additionally, the temple is part of the Chugoku Sanjusankannon Pilgrimage and the Sanyo Hana no Tera 24-temple circuit, making it a meaningful stop for those on a spiritual pilgrimage route.
Tanjoji is nestled in a beautiful, natural environment. The nearby Chugoku Nature Trail makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to combine a cultural visit with hiking or walking through the scenic landscape of Okayama.
Please observe temple rules during your visit. As the temple grounds are sacred, please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Cash is required for offerings (Saisen) or donations. We recommend wearing modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Regarding photography, there are restrictions on filming or photographing the interiors of buildings and certain cultural assets; please check for signs or ask staff for permission. For accessibility, the temple has some uneven surfaces, but wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms are available.