About the construction of Komyo-do and its historical background
Naritasan Komyodo is the central main hall of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in Narita, Japan. Komyo-do has a long history with the following background:
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is said to have been built in the Nara period. Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, which is said to have been founded by Gyoki Bosatsu in 718 (Yoro 2), has been rebuilt many times since the Heian period due to repeated fires.
Komyo-do was rebuilt in 1639 (Kanei 16) of the Edo period. The impetus for this was the efforts of Genku Shonin, a priest of the Nichiren sect who was the chief priest of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple. He was deeply religious and aimed to revive the temple, and with the cooperation of many supporters and believers, he built Komyo-do.
Naritasan Komyo-do has undergone many restorations and reconstructions during the Warring States period and the Edo period. The current building was rebuilt in 1950 (Showa 25) after World War II. Since then, restoration and conservation activities have continued.
Naritasan Komyo-do is an important temple for many believers and tourists, and is popular as an object of faith. There are various historical Buddhist statues and treasures in the precincts, and many people visit as a place where they can feel the tradition and culture of Japan. In addition, Narita International Airport is nearby, so it is popular with tourists from overseas.
About the Komyo-do building itself
Naritasan Komyo-do is the main hall of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in Narita City, Japan, and is known as an important building. Below are some features and a detailed description of the Komyodo building itself:
- Architectural style: Komyodo has the characteristics of typical Japanese temple architecture. Temple architecture is a traditional wooden architectural style, and its characteristic roof, pillars, beams, etc. can be seen.
- Roof and eaves: The roof of Komyodo is covered with traditional thatched grass called kayabuki roof. The thatched roof is an ancient Japanese architectural style, giving it a historical feel.
- Shape of the main hall: Komyodo is a symmetrical building with a main entrance when viewed mainly from the front. Komyo-do is characterized by having a massive three-storied pagoda in front.
- Roof decoration: The roof and eaves of Komyo-do are decorated with sculptures. These sculptures represent elements of nature such as dragons, phoenixes, flowers and leaves.
- Internal structure: The interior of Komyo-do is surrounded by passageways arranged around a large courtyard. Many Buddhist statues and treasures are enshrined in the building, and many worshipers visit as a place of worship.
- Treasures of the temple: Many treasures are stored in Komyo-do. Valuable items related to Japanese art and culture, such as Buddhist statues, paintings, and books, are on display.
- Monzen-cho: The area around Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is prosperous as a monzen-cho, and the area around Komyo-do has an approach and a shopping street. You can also enjoy the atmosphere of Monzen-cho when you visit Komyo-do.
Komyo-do is a beautiful building where you can feel the history and tradition of Japan, and it is a place that brings tranquility and peace to visitors. When visiting, it’s a good idea to pay attention not only to the beauty of the building, but also to the history and religious significance of the temple.
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple as a whole and the role and religious significance of Komyo-do
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple (Naritasan Shinshoji Temple) is a Buddhist temple with one of Japan’s leading histories and beliefs, located in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. Komyo-do, the central building of the temple, plays a very important role as the main hall of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple. Below is a detailed explanation of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple as a whole and the role and religious significance of Komyo-do Hall:
- Origin of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple: Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is said to have been built in the Nara period, and has a history of over 1,300 years. The founder is said to be Gyoki Bosatsu, but since then it has been repaired and rebuilt repeatedly. The history of the temple is deeply connected with the history of Buddhism in Japan.
- Sects and Beliefs: Naritasan Shinshoji is a temple belonging to the Nichiren sect, one of the most popular sects in Japan. The Nichiren sect is a sect founded by Nichiren, a monk in the 13th century, and believes mainly in the Lotus Sutra. At Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, training and memorial services based on the teachings of the Nichiren sect are held.
- Honzon and Buddha Statue: The principal image of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is a Kannon Bodhisattva statue called Senju Kannon. Avalokiteshvara is a symbol of mercy and salvation and is revered by many devotees. This statue of Senju Kannon is enshrined in Komyo-do, and worshipers visit to seek its protection and salvation.
- Role of Komyodo: Komyodo is the central main hall of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and the place where Buddhist ceremonies and memorial services are held. It is also where the temple’s important Buddha statues and treasures are enshrined. It functions as a place where believers and tourists come to worship and seek spiritual peace.
- Worship and Festivals: Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is a sacred place visited by many believers and tourists, especially during New Year’s visits and Obon festivals. Various festivals are held around the temple, and you can experience traditional Japanese culture.
- Role as Head Temple: Naritasan Shinshoji Temple holds the status of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple Head Temple and is the head temple of all Naritasan temples throughout Japan. As a result, Naritasan temples all over the country respect Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and are active under its guidance.
The entire Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and Komyo-do Hall are loved by many people as a symbol of Japanese Buddhist culture and faith. Believers seek spiritual support, and tourists visit as a place to feel the tradition and history of Japan.
About festivals and events held at Naritasan Komyo-do
At Naritasan Komyo-do, various festivals and events are held throughout the year. Here are some representative festivals and events:
- Hatsumode (New Year’s visit): From January 1st to 3rd, New Year’s visits to shrines are held. Many believers and tourists come to pray for New Year’s wishes.
- Hana Matsuri: During the spring season, the Hana Matsuri is held when various flowers are in full bloom around Komyodo and on the grounds of the temple. Cherry blossoms, azaleas, and rape blossoms create beautiful scenery.
- Obon (Urabon-e): Obon is a Buddhist event and is a traditional Japanese event to welcome and hold a memorial service for the spirits of ancestors. Held in mid-August, many people visit to return to their hometowns and worship.
- Omizutori: The Omizutori, which is held in March every year, is one of the representative events of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple. Believers and monks marching along the approach fetch water and bring back the purified water.
- Tea Ceremony: Tea ceremonies and tea ceremonies are sometimes held around Komyodo. You can experience traditional Japanese culture through the tea ceremony.
- Bishamonten Goma Prayer Ceremony: The Bishamonten Goma Prayer Ceremony held in September attracts many worshipers to ward off evil and pray for safety.
These festivals and events are a particularly lively and attractive time to visit Naritasan Komyodo. You can enjoy the atmosphere of the temple while experiencing Japanese traditions and culture. However, specific dates and detailed information may change from year to year, so we recommend checking the official website and local information before visiting.
Types of famous omikuji and amulets at Komyo-do
Naritasan Komyo-do offers a variety of omikuji and amulets that are popular with believers and worshipers. Here are some of the types of omikuji and amulets that Komyodo is famous for:
- Goshinzengoshu: At Komyodo, there are various kinds of amulets. For example, there are amulets with wishes for traffic safety, warding off evil, prosperous business, and academic success. Worshipers can choose and purchase amulets that match their wishes and those of their families.
- Kannon amulet: As a temple that enshrines the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva, the principal image of Komyo-do, the amulet associated with Kannon Bosatsu is also popular. Since Kannon Bodhisattva is a symbol of mercy and salvation, worshipers are believed to receive Kannon’s blessings by holding Kannon Omamori.
- Omikuji: At Komyodo, you can draw an omikuji (divine lottery). Omikuji is a slip of paper used to predict the will of the gods and fortunes. It is said that good luck will come especially if you draw Daikichi.
- Drawing omikuji: At Komyodo, drawing omikuji is also popular. You can draw a picture with the omikuji, and the picture has cute animals and characters.
These omikuji and amulets reflect the wishes and aspirations of the worshipers, and play a role in supporting individual religious beliefs and wishes. Many temples in Japan offer omikuji and amulets based on their beliefs, and Naritasan Komyo-do is no exception. Please listen to your inner voice when choosing an omikuji or amulet.
