Isshinji Temple

Overview

Isshinji Temple is a Jodo sect temple established in 1185 (the first year of the Bunji era) by Honen. Initially, it began as a small hermitage near the west gate of Shitennoji Temple, known as "Araryo no Shin Bessho." However, after Emperor Goshirakawa visited during a pilgrimage to Shitennoji Temple and practiced Nyohokan with Honen, it was renamed "Genkuan." Later, in 1596 (the first year of the Keicho era), Honyo Sonmu, a priest from Mikawa Province, performed 1,000 days of Nembutsu practice at this site, a former location of Honen, and revived it as Isshinji Temple. During the Edo period, it became a special temple under the direct control of the temple and shrine commissioner, without affiliated parishioners. While it declined during the Bunka and Bunsei eras, it was revived by the 50th head priest, Shin'a, during the Tempo period (1831-1845). Isshinji Temple became known as the "Temple of Bone Buddhas" in the Meiji era. In 1887 (Meiji 20), approximately 50,000 sets of cremated remains collected from 1851 to the same year were pulverized, molded, and solidified to create Amitabha Buddha statues. Currently, bone Buddha statues are created every 10 years, with those from the seventh to thirteenth periods (consecrated in 2007) housed in the temple. The total number of cremated remains amounts to 2 million (as of January 2020) and is designated as an intangible folk cultural property of Osaka City. Besides the bone Buddhas, Isshinji boasts many other attractions, including the main hall showcasing Edo-period architecture and the innovative mountain gate designed by contemporary architect Takaguchi Yasuyuki. The extensive grounds feature seasonal plants, providing a tranquil space that allows visitors to escape the bustling city. Recommended for those seeking a peaceful place to relax and unwind.