Houkouji Temple (Shizuoka) Complete Guide｜History, Highlights, and Experience Programs of the Rinzai Sect Houkouji-ha Head Temple
What is Houkouji Temple｜Head Temple of the Rinzai Sect in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Houkouji Temple (方広寺) is the head temple of the Rinzai Sect Houkouji-ha located in Okuyama, Ikka Town, Hamana Ward, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Its official name is “Jinnozan Houkouji Manjushuzenji,” and it is also widely known by the alternative name “Okuyama Hansobo.” Since its founding in 1371 (Kentoku 2), it boasts a history of over 650 years and, as a central temple of the Zen sect with 170 branch temples centered in western Shizuoka Prefecture, attracts deep faith from many believers.
As indicated by the mountain name “Jinnozan” (深奥山), Houkouji Temple is located in a remote mountainous area surrounded by deep mountains northwest of Hamamatsu city. The temple grounds spread throughout virgin nature far from urban hustle and bustle, a sacred place enveloped in the silence befitting Zen practice. The principal image is Shakyamuni Buddha, and as a training hall for practicing Zen teachings, it continues to be visited by many practicing monks and pilgrims today.
History of Houkouji Temple｜Opening by the Son of Emperor Go-Daigo
Circumstances of Founding and Founding Patrons
The history of Houkouji Temple dates back to 1371 (Kentoku 2) during the period of the Northern and Southern Courts. The opening priest was Mumon Gensen Zenji (無文元選禅師), a son of Emperor Go-Daigo. The founding patron was Okuyama Rokuro Jiro Tomofuji (奥山六郎次郎朝藤), a member of the Ii clan, a powerful family in Totoumi Province (present-day western Shizuoka Prefecture), with the Buddhist name Zei’ei Koji.
Okuyama Tomofuji donated a portion of his territory and constructed the temple buildings, inviting the highly renowned Mumon Gensen Zenji to serve as the opening priest. Mumon Gensen Zenji, despite his noble lineage as the son of Emperor Go-Daigo, devoted himself to Zen practice and is known as an eminent monk who trained many disciples.
Establishment of the Rinzai Sect Houkouji-ha
Houkouji Temple formed its own distinct sect within the Rinzai school and established itself as the head temple of the Rinzai Sect Houkouji-ha. The Rinzai sect is a school of Zen Buddhism founded by Rinzai Gigen Zenji of China and was transmitted to Japan during the Kamakura period. The Houkouji-ha developed centered in western Shizuoka Prefecture and has become a major religious organization with 170 branch temples today.
Development Through the Ages and Present Day
Since its founding, Houkouji Temple has suffered from fires and other disasters several times but has been rebuilt each time and expanded its buildings. The existing main hall was completed between 1905 (Meiji 38) and 1918 (Taisho 7) and boasts an impressive scale with a frontage of 32 meters and a depth of 27 meters. This main hall and many other structures in the temple grounds are designated as national registered tangible cultural properties, with their historical and cultural value highly evaluated.
Cultural Properties of Houkouji Temple｜National Important Cultural Properties and Registered Tangible Cultural Properties
Shakyamuni Buddha Triad (Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property)
The most precious cultural property of Houkouji Temple is the Shakyamuni Buddha Triad enshrined in the main hall. These Buddhist statues were created in 1352 (Bunwa 1) during the Northern and Southern Courts period, and an inscription bearing the sculptor’s name remains. Arranged in a tripartite form with Shakyamuni Buddha in the center, flanked by Manjushri Bodhisattva and Samantabhadra Bodhisattva on either side, they are designated as a national important cultural property as a masterwork demonstrating the high level of Buddhist statue-carving techniques of the era.
Seven Bodhisattva Hall (Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property)
The Seven Bodhisattva Hall is known as the oldest wooden building in Shizuoka Prefecture and is designated as a national important cultural property. A valuable structure transmitting the architectural style of the Muromachi period, it houses seven bodhisattva statues inside. Its simple yet dignified architectural beauty vividly preserves the atmosphere of a medieval Zen temple.
Main Hall (National Registered Tangible Cultural Property)
The main hall of Houkouji Temple is a magnificent structure standing on the south side of the central part of the temple grounds. With a formal six-bay square hall format, it features a wide veranda in front and corridors on the sides and back. The overhanging carved railings with cut-through edge on the front, large hip roof with ordinary tile covering, and triple rainbow beam and large bottle-form bundle decorative corner finials fully demonstrate the grandeur befitting a head temple, earning its designation as a national registered tangible cultural property.
Mountain Gate (National Registered Tangible Cultural Property)
Standing on the south-east side of the main hall, facing south on the path along the stream, the mountain gate is a hip-roof double gate with original tile roof covering and three bays with one opening. The bracket work features projecting-style composition in the lower tier and layered-style composition with overhanging logs in the upper tier, with round-timber brackets as the between-bracket elements and double brackets in the central bay. The corner finials feature rainbow beam and large bottle-form bundle, and the eaves have double-layer projecting rafter work, a refined structure with a formal composition befitting the imposing entrance of a head temple.
Other Registered Tangible Cultural Property Structures
Besides the main hall and mountain gate, the Houkouji Temple grounds contain numerous other registered tangible cultural property structures. The Hall of the Opening Priest, the True Hall of Hansobo, the three-story pagoda, and others each possess historical value, with the entire temple grounds preserved as a cultural property group. These structures arranged in harmony demonstrate a valuable example of ideal pagoda layout in Zen temples.
Hansobo Faith｜Guardian Deity of Houkouji Temple
What is Hansobo?
Houkouji Temple is also known by the alternative name “Okuyama Hansobo,” derived from Hansobo (半僧坊), the guardian deity enshrined on the grounds. Hansobo has been deeply revered as the protective deity of Houkouji Temple since ancient times and is one of the major reasons for visiting the temple.
Hansobo is known as a guardian deity in the form of a tengu (mountain goblin) and is particularly worshipped as a deity of good fortune and evil prevention, as well as protection from fire. In the True Hall of Hansobo within the grounds, numerous tengu statues are enshrined, and their powerful forms overwhelm visitors.
True Hall of Hansobo
The True Hall of Hansobo, which enshrines Hansobo, is a central structure of Houkouji Temple along with the main hall. Located on an elevated platform at the top of steep stone steps, the view overlooking the temple grounds from here is exceptional. Inside the hall, centered around the principal image of Hansobo, numerous tengu statues are arranged, creating a unique religious atmosphere.
Every year, many pilgrims visit Hansobo to pray for good fortune, evil prevention, and family safety, seeking its miraculous blessings.
Guide to Houkouji Temple Grounds｜Major Highlights
Front Approach and Mountain Gate
A pilgrimage to Houkouji Temple begins by passing through the torii gate at the front approach. Following the path surrounded by deep forest, one encounters the mountain gate with refined craftsmanship along the stream. This gate is a national registered tangible cultural property, befitting a head temple with its formal composition and dignity. Passing through the mountain gate, one finally enters the sacred precinct of Houkouji Temple.
Turtle-back Bridge and Autumn Leaves Viewing Spot
The grounds contain a red bridge called “Kimegikyo” (亀背橋, turtle-back bridge), and this area is particularly known as a beautiful autumn leaves viewing spot. In late autumn, maple leaves turning red and yellow decorate the bridge, creating a spectacular view where the serenity of a Zen temple and the beauty of nature harmonize.
Main Hall
The main hall at the center of the grounds overwhelms visitors with its grand scale. This massive structure with a frontage of 32 meters and depth of 27 meters increases in impact as one approaches. Inside, the nationally important cultural property Shakyamuni Buddha Triad is enshrined, allowing visitors to worship in a solemn atmosphere.
Hall of the Opening Priest
The Hall of the Opening Priest, which enshrines Mumon Gensen Zenji, is also an important structure on the grounds. Many pilgrims visit to pay respects to the noble virtue of the Zen master.
Three-Story Pagoda
The grounds also feature a beautiful three-story pagoda, and its appearance surrounded by deep greenery is like a painting. The contrast between the pagoda’s crimson color and the surrounding green is striking and popular as a photography spot.
Experience Programs at Houkouji Temple｜Zazen, Sutra Copying, and Temple Lodging
Zazen Meditation Experience
Houkouji Temple offers zazen meditation experiences that anyone can participate in. Zazen at Houkouji Temple, with its long history as a Rinzai sect Zen temple, provides a valuable opportunity to experience authentic Zen training. Seated in silence within a hall enveloped in quietude, the time spent emptying the mind becomes a special experience apart from daily chaos.
Even beginners receive careful instruction, so participation is worry-free. Through zazen, one can confront oneself and attain peace of mind.
Sutra Copying Experience
Sutra copying is also a popular program at Houkouji Temple. By carefully copying character by character Buddhist scriptures such as the Heart Sutra, one can calm the mind and enhance concentration. Even those unfamiliar with writing brushes can proceed at their own pace.
The completed sutra can be offered to the temple, accumulating merit. Sutra copying in a quiet environment has meditative effects and is ideal for mental and physical refreshment.
Weekend Temple Lodging
Houkouji Temple accepts temple lodging experiences utilizing weekends. Through overnight stays at a Zen temple, one can experience a lifestyle close to that of monks. Early morning zazen, sutra recitation, and vegetarian cuisine offer precious time unavailable in ordinary life.
Weekends spent in a Zen temple surrounded by nature, away from urban hustle and bustle, deeply refresh mind and body. It is ideal for digital detoxing and provides an opportunity to recover one’s true self.
Lodging Experiences and Lodging Retreats
Beyond weekend temple lodging, residential retreat programs designed for companies and organizations are also available. Training incorporating Zen teachings as part of team building and human development brings profound insights to participants. Through zazen and samu (cleaning work), one can develop concentration and cooperation.
Monthly Dharma Talks
Monthly dharma talks by the head priest and other high monks are held at Houkouji Temple. These valuable opportunities to hear Buddhist teachings and Zen wisdom explained in understandable terms are popular with those seeking to deepen their faith or seeking life guidance.
Prayer Services
Houkouji Temple also accepts various prayer services. Including family safety, prosperous business, academic achievement, and evil prevention, prayers addressing various wishes are performed. Prayer services for good fortune and evil prevention, especially seeking the blessings of Hansobo, are particularly popular.
Autumn Leaves at Houkouji Temple｜Spectacular Autumn Scenery
Houkouji Temple is known as one of the finest autumn leaves viewing spots in Shizuoka Prefecture. The peak viewing season typically runs from mid-November through early December, with beautiful autumn foliage enjoyed throughout the temple grounds.
Area Around the Front Approach Torii Gate
The area around the torii gate at the front approach is a popular autumn leaves viewing spot. The contrast between the torii standing in the deep forest and the red and yellow colored autumn leaves is beautiful, attracting many photography enthusiasts.
Area Around the Turtle-back Bridge
As previously mentioned, the area around the red Turtle-back Bridge is a particularly beautiful autumn leaves viewing area. The harmony of colors created by the bridge’s vermillion, the red of the autumn leaves, and the green of the evergreens is truly like a painting.
Throughout the Grounds
The vast Houkouji Temple grounds allow visitors to enjoy autumn leaves in various locations. Leisurely strolling the grounds while experiencing the passage of seasons is a luxury unique to Zen temples.
The autumn leaves season attracts many pilgrims, but the vast grounds prevent a sense of crowding, allowing for relaxed autumn leaves viewing.
Access and Viewing Information
Location
〒431-2212 1577-1 Okuyama, Ikka Town, Hamana Ward, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Viewing Hours
9:00–16:30 (Last admission 16:00)
Closed Days
December 28–31
※Basically open without closure on other days
Admission Fee
Adults: Approximately 500 yen (may vary seasonally)
※For details, please consult the official website or contact the temple directly
Transportation Access
Public Transportation
- From JR Hamamatsu Station, take Enshu Railway bus bound for “Okuyama” for approximately 60 minutes, then walk approximately 10 minutes from the final stop
By Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Hamamatsu Inasa IC” on the Shin-Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 40 minutes from “Hamamatsu West IC” on the Tomei Expressway
Parking
- Free parking available (for pilgrims)
Inquiries
For details regarding various experience programs, temple lodging, prayer services, and other offerings at Houkouji Temple, please consult the official website or contact the temple directly.
Sightseeing Spots Around Houkouji Temple
Ikka and Hosoe Areas
The Ikka Town area of Hamana Ward, Hamamatsu City, where Houkouji Temple is located, is an area blessed with history and nature. The surrounding area contains numerous attractions including Ryutan Temple (the Ii clan’s family temple) and Lake Okihamanako.
Lake Hamanako
Approximately 30 minutes by car from Houkouji Temple is Lake Hamanako, a representative tourist destination in Shizuoka Prefecture. It offers various enjoyments including eel cuisine and sightseeing cruises.
Iiyatani Area
The Iiyatani area, which was the setting for the NHK historical drama “Onna Joshu Naotora,” is nearby and is a must-see area for history enthusiasts.
Etiquette and Manners for Visiting Houkouji Temple
Quiet Conduct as a Zen Temple
Houkouji Temple remains a Zen temple where monks practice their training. Maintain quietude on the grounds and be considerate so as not to interfere with the monks’ practice. Avoid loud conversation and noisy behavior.
Photography
Photography on the grounds is generally permitted, though there are areas such as inside the main hall where photography is prohibited. Follow the guidance signs, and if unsure, confirm with staff.
Attire
There are no particularly strict dress codes, but given that this is a religious facility, clothing with excessive exposure should be avoided. For participation in zazen experiences and similar activities, comfortable clothing allowing movement is recommended.
Pilgrimage Etiquette
When passing through the mountain gate, offer a bow, and at the main hall, pay respects with clasped hands in silence. When offering coins, place them gently rather than tossing them.
Conclusion｜The Charm of Houkouji Temple
Houkouji Temple, the head temple of the Rinzai Sect Houkouji-ha in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a prestigious Zen temple with a history of over 650 years. Opened by Mumon Gensen Zenji, a son of Emperor Go-Daigo, it possesses precious cultural properties including the nationally important cultural property Shakyamuni Buddha Triad and the Seven Bodhisattva Hall.
Also known as a center of Hansobo faith, it is visited by many pilgrims seeking good fortune and evil prevention. The magnificent main hall, meticulously crafted mountain gate, beautiful three-story pagoda, and other structures designated as national registered tangible cultural properties together transmit the ideal form of a Zen temple to the present day.
Programs enabling visitors to actually experience Zen training such as zazen, sutra copying, and temple lodging are abundant, making it a precious place for modern people seeking mental and physical refreshment. The beauty of autumn leaves in late fall is equally exceptional, offering a place where nature and faith harmonize, allowing visitors to experience Japanese traditional culture.
Why not step away from urban bustle and spend time confronting your true self in the silence surrounded by deep mountains? Houkouji Temple is a treasure house of religious culture in which Shizuoka Prefecture takes great pride, offering such special experiences.
