Shomyo-ji Temple

Overview

Shomyo-ji Temple is a Bettoku Hongan temple of the Shingon-ritsu sect, originating from a holding Buddha hall (Amida-do) built within the Kanazawa residence in Rokuura-sho by the Kamakura-era warrior, Hojo Sanetoki. Its mountain name is Kinzan-zan. The principal image is Miroku Bosatsu. It's also the 75th temple of the New Shikoku Eastern Japan 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Flourishing as the family temple of the Kanazawa Hojo clan, Shomyo-ji Temple became known in the Kamakura period as "Kanazawa Gakko" (Kanazawa School), a leading center of learning in the Kanto region, attracting many monks. At the time, Shomyo-ji played a significant role not only in academics but also as a center of politics and culture. The temple's highlight is undoubtedly its Pure Land-style garden, designated as a national historic site. Developed during the reign of Sadateru, the third head of the Kanazawa clan, the garden boasts a breathtaking landscape centered around a pond. Two bridges, a Hirabashi (flat bridge) and a Hanbashi (curved bridge), span the pond, providing ideal spots for strolling through the garden. Numerous historically significant buildings, such as the Akamon (Red Gate), Niomon (Gate of the Two Kings), Kondo (Golden Hall), and Shaka-do (Shaka Hall), remain within the grounds. These structures strongly reflect the architectural style of the Kamakura period, demonstrating the advanced building techniques of that era. Shomyo-ji Temple is a magnificent place where history and nature blend seamlessly. Why not take a stroll through its beautiful garden and experience the history spanning back to the Kamakura period?