Honno-ji Temple

Guys! The enemy is at Honnoji Temple, let’s go!

“Ooooh!!”

The incident at Honno-ji, famous for that line and scene. Good evening, everyone. Last night, I had a dream in which I – wearing no armor whatsoever, but clad only in the strongest armor of all, my muscles – joined Akechi Mituhide in an assault on Oda Nobunaga. But today, this is no dream. For I am now standing right in front of Honno-ji.

Look, just look. Isn’t that a bronze statue of Saint Nichiren, holding up the inscription “Rissho Ankoku,” welcoming everyone who visits the temple?

Chanting “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo is what it means to take refuge in the *Lotus Sutra*. Saint Nichiren taught that this is the essence of the *Lotus Sutra* and that salvation come through believing in and chanting the *Odaimoku*(the title of the *Lotus Sutra*).
Here at Honno-ji, we revere Saint Nichiren as our founding patriarch. This is a sacred site where the fundamental teaching of the *Lotus Sutra* and the true intent of the Great Saint Nichiren are expounded, and where believers chant the Daimoku and put their faith into practice.

Nichiren

In 1415 (the 22nd year of the Oei era), the founding patriarch, Saint Nichiryu, worked alongside his uncles, Saint Nichizon and Nichido, to restore the discipline at Myohon-ji Temple (now Myoken-ji). However, unable to achieve their goal, they were forced to leave the temple.
He then established Honno-ji Temple (which bore this name from 1415 to 1432) between Aburanokoji Takatuji and Gojo Bomon, and began his missionary work there. To fulfill the lifelong aspiration of the Great Saint Nichiren, who sought to save people by having them chant “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo.”
Honno-ji was originally located between Aburanokoji Takatuji and Gojo Bomon. However, after suffering destruction, fires, and arson attacks, it was repeatedly rebuilt and relocated, eventually moving to its current location.

It’s right outside Exit 5 of the Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae subway station. Honno-ji Temple is located in the Sanjo Teramachi shopping district, which is quite bustling with people. When you step outside the gate, you see lots of people walking around, but once you pass through the gate… The serene temple grounds welcome us all. Isn’t that wonderful? Is this the power of the Buddha? In an instant, the atmosphere changes completely – from a bustling, lively scene to one enveloped in complete silence.

Honno-ji Temple has suffered many hardships throughout history. However, it is said that even after suffering such a fate, it continued to play a major role as a central pillar of popular belief. Even today, it likely remains a central existence in people’s lives through various religious services.

There is also a place called the Daihoden Treasure Hall at Honno-ji.

Many treasures from Honno-ji Temple, which have survived various calamities and been carefully preserved, have been passed down to the present day and are on display here. Currently, the Daihoden Treasure Museum is hosting an exhibition titled “Exhibition of Famous Swords from the Five Schools” from February 21 to September 6, 2026.

If you are interested, please visit.

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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.