Hello, fellow travel lovers!
This time, I visited Tanjō-ji Temple in Chiba Prefecture. This historic temple was built at the birthplace of Saint Nichiren.
It is a place filled with the spirit of Saint Nichiren, who dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and emphasizing the importance of "living in the present."
Stepping Through the Majestic Gate…
First, a grand and imposing gate stands before you!
As you pass through, rows of stone lanterns welcome you. It suddenly feels solemn… or so I thought, but…
Lighting incense to purify my mind and body instantly refreshed me! Now, onward to the main hall.
Laughs and a Fortune Challenge! Tai-mikuji
The "Tai-mikuji," wishing for a year of stability (and a pun on "tai" meaning sea bream). Completely drawn in by the wordplay, I bought one immediately!
The result… small blessing (shōkichi). "Travel: Don't make a fuss." Wait, what does that even mean!?
Are they telling a travel lover like me to stay quiet!? No way, impossible! 🤣
A collaboration shot featuring my friend's adorable snake zodiac omikuji with Tanjō-ji Temple in the background!
Touring the Main Hall and Highlights
After paying the admission fee, I followed the designated route. I was informed that touching was not allowed, but photography was permitted.
The Gleaming Golden Main Hall The first thing that catches your eye is the magnificent main hall! The central area was off-limits. And here too, I spotted an impressive offering of sea bream. The festive mood just keeps going!
Celestial Maiden Ceiling Painting Looking up, I saw a beautiful painting of a celestial maiden…! My neck started to hurt, but I took my time admiring it.
Honshiden PagodaA profoundly majestic pagoda. The rear wall is said to be able to hold 500,000 scattered flower petals (sange).
Sange are colored paper pieces shaped like lotus petals.
Sacred Treasury Inside the Pagoda
Oni Roof Tile (Height: 416 cm, Width: 554 cm, Weight: 2.81 tons!) 👹 It's absolutely massive!
展示写真には、鬼瓦に登る人の姿が。規模感がおかしい！
Gradually Getting Colder… ❄️
Peony RoomOne of several guest rooms.
Hallway Around this point, my toes started to feel completely frozen… Winter temple visits can be quite tough!
Exceptionally Well-Ventilated Bathhouse For some reason, the bathhouse feels unusually open (lol). But the grandeur of the marble is truly impressive!
Traditional Washroom So low! Do you have to sit to use it? But it seems like hot water flows just fine. There's even a soap dispenser… The marble adds a touch of historical romance.
Goal! In Search of Warmth…
View of the Pond from the Guest Hall Gazing at the pond while shivering from the cold.
Discovered a Room That Looks Warm! The sofa room across the way looks so warm… I dash over immediately!
There was no heating, but the sunlight streaming through the window was warm and comforting—felt like I came back to life! ☀️
Tanjō-ji Temple is a must-visit destination packed with history, humor, and good fortune—truly a fulfilling experience!
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip! – TabiJun
