Eikando Zenrin-ji Temple

“Namu Amida Butu, Namu Amida Butu.”
It was February 15th in 1082 (Eiho 2). That day, too, Eikan was performing the Nembutu practice at the Amida Hall. The nighttime practice was drawing to a close, but there was still some time before dawn. Inside the frozen hall, the occasional shadow of a candle cast a light that reflected Eikan’s figure.

Suddenly, he sensed something. He gasped. Descending from the platform and walking ahead was the principal image of worship, Amida Buddha. Then, it turned its head smoothly to the left and looked at Eikan.

“Eikan, you’re late.”

Having said so, Amida Buddha led Eikan. The principal image of Eikan-do Temple, the Amida Buddha, is a rare “looking-back Amida” in the world. It is said that various thoughts and wishes are embodied in it.

It is said that these kinds of hearts are in the looking-back Amida Buddha.

The official name of Eikan-do Temple is “Seishu Raigeizan Muryojuin Zenrin-ji”. Its origin dates back to the early Heian period, when it was founded in 853 by Shinsho, a disciple of Kukai. Then, in 863, Emperor Seiwa bestowed an imperial plaque upon the temple, and it was named “Zenrin-ji.” The name of Eikan-do originates from the seventh head priest of this temple, Eikan Risshi. Eikan, who dedicated himself to helping the underprivileged, was widely admired. And so, over time, his temple came to be known as “Eikan-do.”

Eikan-do Temple is known as a famous spot for autumn foliage, and in the fall, you can enjoy a truly magnificent view of the colorful leaves.

Hojo-chi

However, in fact, the scenery in May, the season of fresh greenery, is just as beautiful. Carp swim in the pond, and the water surface reflects the changing colors of the trees, creating a truly stunning sight.

The scenery in front of Hojo-chi

On Benten Island, located above the pond, is a shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of water. Benzaiten is originally an Indian goddess, known as the goddess of language, music, and arts and sciences. In the Middle Ages, she was worshipped as one of the Seven Lucky Gods, and during the Edo period, her worship deepened as a god of wealth accumulation.

The path leading to Amida Buddha Hall

Amida Buddha Hall

As it is a place of worship for the Nembutu faith, a peaceful atmosphere prevails. The Amida Hall houses the principal image, a standing statue of Amida Buddha, known as the “Looking-Back Amida.”

Created from late Heian period to early Kamakura period

It is a rate standing statue in Japan, with its body facing forward in a raigeiin sign, with its left shoulder slightly slumped, looking back to the left (mikaeri), and looking down toward the floor behind it. It is said that on February 15th, in1082 (Eiho 2), a miraculous event occurred in which monk Eikan Risshi walked in front of him as he was performing a Buddhist chanting practice and encouraged him by saying, “Eikan, you are late.” The statue of the looking-back Amida Buddha is said to be from that time.

I felt that Eikan-do Temple is more appropriately described as a place of faith, a center for chanting Buddhist prayers, rather than a tourist attraction. I encourage everyone to touch the “Looking-back Amida Buddha” in the main hall and reflect on the matter slowly in the tranquil surroundings.
The attitude of waiting for those who are falling behind. The attitude of reflecting on one’s own position. The attitude of showing love and compassion. The attitude of looking at those around it with deep consideration. By encountering these thoughts and wishes, you will surely gain some insight into yourself.

References

Makoto Kito (supervisor), Fumiko Date (manuscript), “The Story of Eikan-do” (Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Head Temple, 2009)
“A pamphlet for the head temple, Eikan-do, Zenrin-ji.”

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Author

Jubei
Hello everyone. I am Jubei, an earthling whose energy does not stop today. What I like is playing (manga, movies, music (J-Rock, etc.) and visiting cafes). Thank you for your understanding.