The formal name of this temple is ”Kyoeizan Daikyouji”
Speaking of Taisyakuten, peopleI always think of the movie series 'Otoko wa Tsurai yo.' I hadn't watched it before, but after seeing a few short clips on YouTube, I got hooked.
Tora-san is indeed a troublesome guy. But he's also loyal, kind, and compassionate, which explains why he's so popular.
Nitenmon
It's a splendid gate adorned with sculptures. It's said to be modeled after the Yomeimon Gate at Nikko Toshogu Shrine.
White Snake at Goshinsui
The rule inside the precincts is to walk counterclockwise. You offer a donation at the statue of Jogyo Bodhisattva and purify yourself with the sacred water that Tora-san used for his first bath.
Behind the sacred water, I spotted an intriguing group! White snakes holding onto golden poop with care. Is it for wealth? Business prosperity? Good health? Or maybe even luck in the lottery? Hmm, there's a mound of golden poop piled up! Must be for wealth, right?
I pray for blessings and place my hands on the golden poop.
Taisyakudo
御本堂には喜びが現れる城という意味をもつ「喜見城」と書かれています。写真を撮り忘れてしまいました。
I offer my donation and take off my shoes before entering. Inside. Are they young monks? Some are solving Rubik's Cubes, others are scrolling through their phones, and some are even dozing off... (laughs). Perhaps they're enjoying some leisure time before their training?
Sculpture gallery
At the ticket machine, I purchased a ¥400 admission ticket for the sculpture gallery. Later, I realized that this admission fee was actually for the Japanese garden, Suikien.
The sculptures, carved in multiple layers, are truly stunning. Beneath each sculpture, there are explanations of the scenes depicted, which helped deepen my understanding. Each sculpture tells a moving story, making the experience truly captivating.
Beautiful Suikeien
At the entrance, there was a blue biwa (Japanese lute) arranged. It's quite innovative.
The 'Nanten no Tokobashira' (Southern Heaven Pillar) in the 'Chokei no Ma' (Peak Sutra Room) - the large Southern Heaven tree is impressive! It's said to be a natural Nanten tree with an age of about 1,500 years.
It's a perfect weather for tending to the garden. Several artisans were seen meticulously maintaining the garden by hand.
The baby turtles and koi fish are swimming around happily.
Tora-san Omikuji
From near the entrance of the temple all the way, you can hear the theme song of 'Tora-san, Our Lovable Tramp' playing in the background. The sound source is right here, at the Tora-san omikuji vending machine. I tried pulling an omikuji with Tora-san's famous lines written on it.
Good fortune. The teachings from Teishakuten Temple really resonate with me.
Tora-san's words are...
Those who have traveled far should be welcomed warmly.
Tora-san always returns from long journeys, doesn't he? That's what it means!
Staying time here: 1 hour
