Zen temple
 |
Zen temple 報国寺 （ Houkoku-ji ) |
Hokokuji Temple is one of Zen temple which belong to Kenchoji Temple of Rinzai Sect. It was originated by Tengan Eko in 1334(the first year of Kenmu-era) to commemorate Ashikaga Ietoki, grandfather of Takauji, first of Ashikaga shoguns.
The principal image enshrined in the main hall is Shaka-nyorai-zazo(sitting Shakyamuni), which was crafted by a famous Buddhist sculptor, Takuma Hogen, and is specified as cultural property by Kamakura-city. In the annex, Kasho-do, enshrined are a very well-featuring statue of the originator Butsujo Zenji (his posthumous title) crafted in 1347, which is also a cultural property specified by Kamakura-city, and a statue, Kasho-sonja-zo(Kasyapa). |
|
|
In Kamakura Museum, many important treasures of this temple are preserved. Among them are Toki-Shu, a manuscript of Chinese poems written by the originator, a wooden stamp of the originator and a statue of Sei-Kanzeon-Bosatu (the Kannon); the first two of them are specified as important cultural properties by Japanese Government. While visiting the temple, it will be a good occasion to take a stroll in the historical town, Kamakura.
|
 |
"Zazen may be thought of by people as simply meditating or needs harsh exercising. Zazen is much more than that. It frees the mind from worldly thoughts and aims at achieving the buddha's teaching of reaching nirvana. To attain the highest level needs constant practice. It cannot be accomplished in a day. Once you have experienced Zazen, it can be integrated into your daily life. And from there, you will realize the teachings of Buddha. "
Message from Mr. Ujihara, the chief director of Houkokuji
|
| For the one who wants to experience substantial Zazen. |
In the regular zazen meeting, we teach how to sit properly, and we have Hakama and uniform for people who want to wear Hakama and the uniform.
Usually after zazen, chanting sutra and having Sukuza(rice porridge) are scheduled.
Group session is also available if circumstances permit. In addition, since all lectures are performed in Japanese, we recommend attendance with an interpreter.
The regular zazen meeting :
Every Sunday, 7:00 am〜10:00 am.
Please call for confirmation in advance. The schedule may change without notice.
|
 |
 |
The temple usually opens to anyone with entrance fee \200, 9:00 am〜4:00 pm. Houkokuji is also called “the Bamboo temple”, being famous for the bamboo grove in the backyard, you can enjoy looking at the garden with served green powdered tea and sweets for \500.
報国寺 Houkokuji
2-7-4 Jyomyoji, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa 248-0003
Tel: 0467-22-0762
Transportation: From Kamakura Sta, take #5 bus for Tachiarai/Kanazawahekkei Sta., about 12 min.,getting off at the Jyomyoji bus stop, on foot 3min. |
|
