谷根千をめぐる小さな旅(A small journey around YaNeSen)(Sunday,October 15, 2023-No50)

谷根千をめぐる小さな旅(A small journey around YaNeSen)(Sunday,October 15, 2023-No50)

Yanesen is a general term that refers to the Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi areas from the eastern end of Bunkyo Ward to the western end of Taito Ward.
Although this area is located inside the Yamanote Line, it was not damaged much by the Pacific War. Even after the war, it was spared large-scale development, so the old townscape remains.
Recently, the number of unique shops such as new general stores and restaurants has increased in the residential area, and the aspect of the area as a tourist destination is becoming stronger. The website of the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau also lists "Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi" as one of the representative tourist areas of Tokyo.

Yanaka, which has a temple town and villa area and a popular shopping street from the Edo period, Sendagi, a residential area where many literati and rakugo artists such as Natsume Soseki, Mori Ogai, and Kokontei Shinsyo lived, and Nezu, which flourished as the gate town of Nezu Shrine and once had a red‐light district. It is commonly known as "Yane Sen" after the initials of the three towns. With an area of only 1.5 kilometers square and a surprisingly diverse landscape, it is truly a miracle city.

1.Yanaka Cemetery(谷中霊園

Yanaka Cemetery is a metropolitan cemetery located in Yanaka 7-chome, Taito-ku, Tokyo. It covers an area of 102,537 m2 and contains about 7,000 tombs. It is a 6-minute walk from JR Nippori Station. Although it is outside the management area of the Tokyo Metropolitan Park Association, Kan-ei-ji Yanaka 1st Cemetery, Kan-ei-ji Yanaka 2nd Cemetery, Ten-no-ji Cemetery, and Ryo-gon-ji Cemetery, are surrounded by Yanaka Cemetery.

(1)Yanaka-Ten-no-ji(谷中・天王寺

Tennoji Temple was founded in the late Kamakura period under the name of Chōyōzan Kannoji. The main statue was erected in 1690 as a sitting statue of Amitabha Buddha. The height is 4 meters 85 centimeters.

(2)Grave of Dr. Tomitaro Makino and his wife Sue(牧野万太郎博士と妻・壽衛の墓所

Tomitaro Makino (May 22, 1862 – January 18, 1957) 
He is widely known as the "father of Japan botany," and there are award facilities named after Makino throughout the Japan. He is an authority on modern plant taxonomy who discovered and named many new species. The results of his research have survived in the form of 500,000 specimens, observation records, and numerous works such as the Makino Japan Botanical Encyclopedia. NHK TV series "Ranman" (first half broadcast in 2023) The main character "Makino Mantaro" modeled on Tomitaro Makino was played by Ryunosuke Kamiki, and his wife Sue (1873 - February 23, 1928) was played by Minami Hamabe.

(3)Grave of Tokugawa Yoshinobu(徳川慶喜公の墓所

The funeral was chaired by Shibusawa Eiichi, who had served Yoshinobu at the end of the Tokugawa shogunate. His grave is in Yanaka Cemetery. Tokugawa's grave is in the Kan-ei-ji Cemetery in Yanaka Cemetery, but Yoshinobu wanted a Shinto-style burial so it is not in the Kan-ei-ji Cemetery. There are no Buddhist mortuary tablets(位牌) at Taijuji Temple (大樹寺 Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture), which is the place of the Tokugawa shogunate's family.

2.Exhibition hall attached to the downtown customs museum (former Yoshidaya liquor store) (下町風俗資料館付設展示場(旧吉田屋酒店)
This attached exhibition hall is a relocation of the building of "Yoshidaya", which has been operating a liquor store for generations since the Edo period in Yanaka 6-chome, to its current location. The building, built in Meiji 43, shows the characteristics of merchant house architecture from the mid-Edo period to the Meiji period. 
Inside, tools used for the sale of alcoholic beverages, such as scales, funnels, masu wheels, barrels, virtues, advertising posters and signboards, and materials related to the trade are on display.

3. Takahashi Deisyu(1835~1903) and Daiyuji Temple (高橋泥舟と大雄寺)
Tokugawa Yoshiyobu's first choice as an emissary to Saigo Takamori in the government and military for negotiations on the disposition of the Tokugawa family was Deisyu in anticipation of his sincere and resolute personality. However, Deisyu was a person who Yoshinobu relied on him kindly, and he was unable to leave his lord's side due to the uneasy situation in Edo. Instead, he recommended his brother-in-law Yamaoka Tessyu, who played this major role brilliantly.
 "The heart of a greedy person and the falling snow lose their way as they accumulate," and it is famous for saying that excessive desire is a deception to life, and that we should live selflessly and honestly.

4. Himalayan cedar in Yanaka (quoted from Tokyo Shimbun, October 17, 2019) (谷中のヒマラヤ杉(東京新聞からの引用))
Due to the wind and rain caused by Typhoon No. 19, one of the four trunks of a 100-year-old cedar tree next to a bakery in Yanaka, Taito Ward, broke off near the base. It had collapsed on the roof of the store, and the ward began its removal work on the 16th.   Cedar is a symbol of the region, and the ward designated it as a "protected tree" in 2006. It is owned by Yoko Saito (85), the owner of the "Mikado Bread Store" on Sankai Road.  The potted plant that Saito's grandfather had grown since before the war took root in the ground and grew to a height of 20 meters and a trunk circumference of 4 meters. The trunk splits into four branches toward the sky, spreading branches and leaves to cover the surrounding roads and shops.

5.The reason why there are many temples in Ynaka (inquiry by AI (GPT4)) 

(谷中にお寺が多い理由)

There are three main reasons why there are many temples in Yanaka.

(1) Yanaka was the demon gate of Edo Castle, and many shogunate bodhi temples such as Kaneiji Temple and their child temples were built.

(2) With the expansion of the urban area of Edo, many temples from Kanda and other places were relocated to Yanaka.

(3) The temple that was burned out in the Great Fire of the Ming Calendar (1657) was rebuilt in the valley.

Due to these historical backgrounds, Yanaka has become a large-scale temple town with more than 60 temples. Yanaka's temple town is a valuable place that still retains the popular culture of Edo and Tokyo.

This photo is of Enjuji Temple and Nikka-do(延壽寺・日荷堂). Nikka-Syonin(日荷上人) is enshrined as the "god of healthy legs".

6. Nezu Shrine(根津神社
 It is an old shrine that is said to have been founded by Yamato Takeru(日本武尊 : He is the son of the 12th Emperor Keiko(景行天皇) and the father of the 14th Emperor Chuai(仲哀天皇). He is said to have carried out Kumaso(熊襲) and the Eastern Country Japan and is a legendary hero of ancient history.) nearly 1900 years ago.

The current shrine building was built in the 3rd year of Hoei (1706) on the site of a house dedicated by Tokugawa Ienobu (later the 6th shogun), the lord of Kofu Domain. It is considered a masterpiece of gongenzoku (the main hall, the main hall, and the worship hall are structurally integrated). Seven shrine buildings are designated as important cultural properties of the country.

This photo is of the "Stone of Literary Lords(文豪の石)". It is located on the left immediately after entering the tower gate of Nezu Shrine, next to the entrance to Otome Inari Shrine. It is said that Natsume Soseki and Mori Ogai, who lived in the neighborhood, sat here and thought about this stone when they took a walk.

7.Natsume Soseki and the Cat House(夏目漱石と猫の家)

Soseki spent nearly four years in Sendagi from 1903 (Meiji 36), when he returned from studying in England, but the proximity to Tokyo Imperial University, where he was a lecturer, may have been convenient as a walking area. Even so, he has many complaints about neighbors and leaves cryptic words such as "I don't like Sendagi, so I won't leave." Eventually, he moved at the request of the owner of the house returning from his local assignment, but reluctantly.

Natsume Soseki wrote his first novel "Gohan is a Cat" in this house, so it is called "Cat House".

On the site of this residence stands a stone monument written by Kawabata Yasunari, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature. This Sendagi house was also inhabited by Ogai about 13 years before Soseki (now moved to Meiji Village in Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture).

8. Mori Ogai and Kanchoro Ruins (森鴎外と観潮楼跡)
Until Mori Ogai's death in 1922 (Taisho 11), the ruins of a residence where he wrote many masterpieces such as "Youth", "Goose", and "Takase-Bune". Ogai moved here in 1892 (Meiji 25) from "Cat House", which is later known for Natsume Soseki's novel "Gohan is a Cat". He could see Tokyo Bay far from the study on the second floor, so I named it Kan-cho-ro Tower. From 1907 (Meiji 40), the Kanchoro Short Poems Party(観潮楼歌会) was also held, and Sasaki Nobutsuna, Yosano Tetsukan, Ito Sachio, Ishikawa Takuboku and others also attended. On November 1, 2012 (Heisei 24), to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Mori Ogai's birth, the Bunkyo Ward Mori Ogai Memorial Hall was opened on the site of this "Kanchoro".

9. Yamaoka Tetsushu and Zenshoan 山岡鉄舟全生庵
In 1880 (Meiji 13), Yamaoka Tetsushu requested the construction of Yamaoka Tetsushu to mourn the bodhi(菩提を弔う to hold a memorial service for the dead) of those who were martyred during the Meiji Restoration. There is a tomb of the first Sanyutei Encho, a master of rakugo, and around August 11 every year, this temple(Zenshoan), Rakugo Association, and Enraku Ichimonkai(Enraku Rakugo Group 円楽一門会) each hold events at this temple.

Prior to the meeting between Katsu Kaishu and Saigo Takamori, who finalized the bloodless opening of Edo Castle, Yamaoka Tetsushu was directly ordered by Tokugawa Yoshinobu as an emissary to reach Sunpu (present-day Shizuoka City), where government and military troops were stationed, met with Saigo alone, negotiated, and concluded the general framework, and became a leading figure in the bloodless opening of Edo.

10. Tsuiji wall of Kan-non-ji Temple(観音寺の築地塀
 The Tsuiji wall of Kannonji Temple was built around the end of the Tokugawa shogunate, and this temple surrounded the east and south sides of the precincts of Kannonji Temple, but only the south side still exists. It partially collapsed due to the Great Kanto Earthquake that occurred in 1923 (Taisho 13), but when supplies were scarce due to the postwar depression that began at the end of World War I, the collapsed part was reassembled using the original materials as much as possible from the viewpoint of cultural property protection. After that, there was minor damage due to aging, but it was repaired and retained to this day as it was in the Edo period.

11. Okakura Tenshin and Okakura Tenshin Memorial Park(岡倉天心岡倉天心記念公園)
Okakura Tenshin contributed greatly to the establishment of the Tokyo Fine Arts School (the predecessor of the current Tokyo University of the Arts) and later founded the Japan Art Academy. He was a pioneer in the study of art history in the modern Japan, and contributed to the establishment of the concept of Japan art after the Meiji era, conducting a wide range of educational activities such as art historian and art critic in English, training artists, and director of the Department of Chinese and Japan Art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

Okakura Tenshin Memorial Park is located on the site of his former home, which is also the birthplace of the Japan Art Academy. It is a small park of about 700㎡ that opened in 1967 (Showa 42). There stands the Rokkakudō Hall and a short poem monument, and a statue of Tenshin sits in the Rokkakudō.

12.Yomise Night Store Street (quoted from Mitsubishi UFJ Real Estate Sales HP) and Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street(よみせ通り谷中銀座商店街)

 In 1920 (Taisho 9), the "Aizome River" that flowed from Komagome Somei(駒込染井) to Ueno Shinobazu Pond(上野不忍池)was culverted, and a street with a width of 8 meters was built on top of it. This is now the "Yomise Street Shoei-kai(よみせ通り商栄会)". After that, the shopping street was lined with morning markets, street stalls lined up in the afternoon, and at night street performers competed in the streets, and it grew into a fun street full of downtown atmosphere. It is said that the bustle continued until late at night, so it came to be called "Night Shop Street". The name of the shopping street, "Yomise," is a remnant of that. Even now, you can feel the remnants of it here and there on the street, and it is a shopping street with such warmth.
Yanaka Ginza谷中銀座) is an old-fashioned shopping street that has been around since the 1950s. There are about 60 shops and restaurants. "Sunset Dandan(夕焼けだんだん)" was named by Mayumi Mori, writer and editor of the town magazine "Yanesen" when the stone steps were renovated in 1990. The slope of the stairs is 15 degrees and gentle, the height difference is 4 meters, and there are 36 steps. It is 4.4 meters wide and 15 meters long.



 

成田山新勝寺・不動明王・初詣(Narita-san Shinsho-ji・Fudo Myōō・Hatsu-mode)(Tuesday, January 3, 2023-No.48)

成田山新勝寺不動明王・初詣(Narita-san Shinsho-ji・Fudo Myōō・Hatsu-mode)(Tuesday, January 3, 2023-No.48)

The main hall is crowded with Hastu-mode worshippers.

The Great Pagoda of Peace(平和の大塔), built in 1984 (Showa 59), is a tower that symbolizes the teachings of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. The total height is 58m, and the first floor has the entrance to the large tower, the history exhibition of Naritasan Mountain, and various reception desks of the Sutra Dojo. In the Myōōō -den Hall on the second floor, Fudo Myōōō, principal object of worship at this Hall, the Four Great Myōōō, the Showa Great Mandala(Buddhist visual schema of the enlightened mind), and the Shingon Master Chart are dedicated.

Within the precincts of Naritasan there is a vast park that covers about 3.5 times (165,000 m²) of Tokyo Dome. The park incorporates the Buddhist idea of respecting the life of all living beings, and is a place to nurture precious life that represents non-killing.

Narita-san Shinsho-ji(成田山新勝寺
Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect Chizan school (真言宗智山派)located in Narita, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan and is one of the main temples of the school. Its honorific mountain prefix(山号)is Narita Mountain. The main statue is Fudo Myōō不動明王), and this temple is a major center of Fudo Myōō worship. For this reason, it has been widely known by common names such as Narita Fudo and Ofudo-sama. It is said that the mountain was opened in the middle of the Heian period in the 3rd year of Tenkei (or Tengyo 天慶 940).

This temple is one of the best in the Kanto region in terms of the number of worshippers.
The number of Hatsu-mode(the first visit to the shrine or the temple in the year)visitors is the second largest in Japan (first in Chiba Prefecture) after Meiji Jingu Shrine(明治神宮), and the first largest number of visitors to temples in Japan. It is also known that many people come here to pray for blessings both now and in the past. Due to its proximity to Narita International Airport, it is also popular with foreign tourists.

Hatsu-mode(初詣)とEho Mairi(恵方詣り)

Hatsu-mode is an event in which people visit shrines and temples for the first time since the beginning of the year. People give thanks for the year and pray for safety and peace in the New Year.

In the Kanto region, the opening of the Tokaido Line in 1872 (Meiji 5) made it easier to access Kawasaki Daishi(川崎大師), which had been a worship for a long time. Until then, New Year's pilgrimage by Tokyo (Edo) citizens was limited to the city, but famous shrines and temples in the suburbs came to be regarded as the target of New Year's Eho Mairi(恵方詣り). In addition, New Year's pilgrimages to the suburbs were also held as vacations. It is said that the word "Hatsu-mode"(初詣)appeared to refer to the New Year's pilgrimage to Kawasaki Daishi, which had nothing to do with the previous Eho visit or the festival day (Hatsu-daishi on the 21st) (21日の初大師), and the article in "Yorozu-chyoho" of 1885 (Meiji 18) is introduced as the first appearance. With the development of the railway network, access to suburban and distant shrines and temples such as Narita-san Shinsho-ji Temple has become easier, and Railway companies such as Keisei Electric Railway, Keihin Kyuko Electric Railway, Narita Railway(Current: JR Narita Line)that were opened for the purpose of transporting worshippers also appeared. Competing railway companies (including the Japanese National Railways) engaged in advertising battles and service competitions to attract New Year's visitors. Initially, the convenience of "Eho" to famous shrines and temples by railway was pushed out, but the word "Hatsu-mode" came to be used often for Eho, which changed from year to year, and after the Taisho era, "Hatsu-mode" came to be used mainly.

Generally speaking, the first visit is the third day of the New Year, but there is also the idea that the first visit is made in January. In addition, there is no regulation on the number of times. There is also a theory that visiting a large number of shrines and temples will bring various benefits, in which case there is no particular question of shrines and temples.

Eho Mairi is one of the ancient New Year's events. On January 1 (New Year's Day), visit the shrine and temple in Eho of that year and pray for happiness for the year. Eho is the direction in which Toshitoku-jin(歳徳神) reigns, and changes every year according to the 10 zodiac seasons. It is a practice that is not often seen today. The god of the year is the god of the yin-yang path(陰陽道)and the good fortune of the year.

Generally speaking, the first visit is the third day of the New Year, but there is also the idea that the first visit is made in January. In addition, there is no regulation on the number of times. There is also a theory that visiting a large number of shrines and temples will bring various benefits, in which case there is no particular question of shrines and temples.

Fudo Myōō(不動明王
Myōō is a Buddha who protects the Dharma and saves people from misfortune and confusion. Among them, it is Fudo Myōō不動明王)who is called "Ofudo-sama" and gathers faith widely. The figure of Ofudo-sama stands out bravely to save the unsalvageable who are covered in disturbing emotions and to cut off the evil hearts that hinder the Buddhist path. His expression is very severe, but he has long been worshipped as a Buddha who has mercy on people.

On both sides of the statue of Fudo Myōō, there are wakiji (脇侍) of Kongara Doji(矜羯羅童子)  and Seitaka Doji (制咜迦童子), and they are often enshrined as the Three Deities.

Buddha with an unwavering heart and protection of people
As the name suggests, Mr. Fudo has a firm heart that is "immovable" and "unshakable," and lives in the Banjakuza(盤石座;a stone seat that never moves), which represents this.

In ancient India, the birthplace of Buddhism, it is called "Acharanata(「アチャラナータ」)", which also means "immovable guardian". Ofudo-sama is a Buddha who protects and accompanies those who are well religious and devoted.

The fact that Ofudo-sama carries a flame on his back shows that he lives in the spirit of fire which burns all disturbing beings into flames throughout the body.

Ofudo-sama's vow is to cut off the ignorance that is the cause of human troubles and to bring true happiness, and it is said that if our sincerity is understood, any wish will surely be fulfilled.

With an angry expression, Ofudo-sama tries to save everyone.
(1) In his right hand he holds a sword that cuts off all hesitations in his heart.
(2) In his left hand, he holds a rope called Kenzaku(羂索) that leads things in the right direction.
(3) The large rock on which Fudo sits represents the firm will of God.
(4) Ofudo-sama carries a flame that burns all obstacles.

 

京都・奈良の紅葉を愛でる旅(その3-長谷寺、室生寺)A trip to enjoy the autumn leaves of Kyoto and Nara(Part 3-Hase-dera and Muro-ji)(Tuesday, November 14, 2022-No.47)

京都・奈良の紅葉を愛でる旅(その3-長谷寺室生寺)A trip to enjoy the autumn leaves of Kyoto and Nara(Part 3-Hase-dera and Muro-ji)(Tuesday, November 14, 2022-No.47)

1.長谷寺
長谷寺(はせでら)は、奈良県桜井市初瀬(はせ)にある真言宗豊山派の総本山の寺院である。本尊は十一面観音(十一面観世音菩薩)である。長谷寺平安時代中期以降、観音霊場として貴族の信仰を集めた。万寿元年(1024年)には藤原道長が参詣しており、中世以降は武士や庶民にも信仰を広めた。「花の御寺」とも称され、桜、牡丹、あじさい、紅葉、寒牡丹など四季折々の花が楽しめる。
1.Hase-dera
Temple is the head temple of the Buzan School of Shingon Buddhism, located in Hase, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture. The principal object of worship is Eleven-faced Kannon (Eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva). Since the middle of the Heian period, Hase-dera Temple has been worshiped by aristocrats as a sacred Kannon temple. In 1024, Fujiwara no Michinaga made a pilgrimage to the shrine, and after the Middle Ages, the faith spread to samurai and commoners. It is also known as the "Temple of Flowers," where you can enjoy seasonal flowers such as cherry blossoms, peonies, hydrangeas, autumn leaves, and winter peonies.

Nio-mon gate(So-mon gate) 仁王門(総門)

Noboriro(登楼) is a stone stairway with 399 steps.

Like Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, the main hall on the south side is built on a cliff halfway up the mountain. The main hall is designated as a national treasure.

A five-storied pagoda built in 1954. It blends well with the background and is beautiful.

This is the main hall stage.

2.室生寺
室生寺(むろうじ)は、奈良県宇陀市室生にある真言宗室生寺派大本山の寺院である。本尊は如意輪観音である。如意輪観音とは、観音菩薩の変化身(へんげしん)の一つである。真言宗の拠点である高野山がかつては女人禁制であったことから、女性の参詣が許されていた室生寺には「女人高野」の別名があるが、この別名は江戸時代以降のものである。
平安時代前期の建築物や仏像が伝えられ、また、境内はシャクナゲの名所としても知られる。五重塔は国宝。800年頃の建立で、木部を朱塗りとする。屋外にある木造五重塔としては、法隆寺塔に次ぎわが国で2番目に古く、国宝・重要文化財指定の木造五重塔で屋外にあるものとしては日本最小である。高さは16メートル強である。
2.Muro-ji
Muro-ji Temple is the head temple of the Muro-ji school of the Shingon sect located in Muro, Uda City, Nara Prefecture. The principal object of worship is Nyoirin Kannon. Nyoirin Kannon is one of the transformations of Kannon Bodhisattva. Since Mt. Koya, the base of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, was once forbidden to women, Muro-ji Temple, where women were allowed to visit, is known as 'Women's Koya,' but this name has been around since the Edo period.
Buildings and Buddhist statues from the early Heian period have been handed down, and the precincts are also known as a famous place for rhododendrons. The five-storied pagoda is a national treasure. Built around 800, the wooden parts are painted vermillion. It is the second oldest outdoor wooden five-storied pagoda in Japan, after Horyuji Pagoda, and the smallest outdoor wooden five-storied pagoda designated as a National Treasure or Important Cultural Property in Japan. It is over 16 meters tall.

Nio-mon gate(仁王門)

The main hall of Muroji Temple, designated as a national treasure.

A five-storied pagoda designated as a national treasure.

Built around 800 AD, the wooden parts are painted vermillion. It is the second oldest outdoor wooden five-storied pagoda in Japan, after Horyuji Pagoda, and the smallest outdoor wooden five-storied pagoda designated as a National Treasure or Important Cultural Property in Japan. It is a small pagoda with a height of a little over 16 meters and a side of the roof on the first floor measuring 2.5 meters long, about one-third the height of the five-storied pagoda of Kofuku-ji Temple.

Kondo(金堂), designated as a national treasure. A statue of Shaka Nyorai(Budda)(釈迦如来像) is enshrined in the center, a statue of Yakushi Nyorai(薬師如来像) on the right, and a statue of Monju Bosatsu(Bodhisattva)(文殊菩薩) on the left.











 

京都・奈良の紅葉を愛でる旅(その2-三千院、鞍馬寺、貴船神社、薬師寺)A trip to enjoy the autumn leaves of Kyoto and Nara(Part 2-Sanzen-in,Kurama-dera,Kifune-Jinjya,Yakushi-ji)(Monday, November 14, 2022-No.46)

京都・奈良の紅葉を愛でる旅(その2-三千院鞍馬寺貴船神社薬師寺)A trip to enjoy the autumn leaves of Kyoto and Nara(Part 2-Sanzen-in,Kurama-dera,Kifune-Jinjya,Yakushi-ji)(Monday, November 14, 2022-No.46)

1.三千院
三千院(さんぜんいん)は、京都市左京区大原来迎院町にある天台宗の寺院である。京都市街の北東の山中、かつては貴人や仏教修行者の隠棲の地として知られた大原の里にある。

三千院延暦年間(782‐806)に伝教大師最澄比叡山東塔南谷(とうとうみなみだに)の山梨の大木の下に一宇を構えたことに始まる。

1.Sanzen-in
Sanzen-in is a temple of the Tendai sect located in Ohara Raigoin-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. Located in the mountains northeast of Kyoto city, Ohara Village was once known as a retreat for nobles and Buddhist practitioners.

Sanzen-in Temple dates back to the Enryaku era (782-806) when Dengyo Daishi Saicho set up a temple under a large Japanese pear tree in Hieizan East Tower Minamidani.

Goten-mon(御殿門)

Syuheki-en(聚碧園) Shuhekien is a garden with a pond that can be viewed from the reception hall, and it is said that it was built by Sowa Kanamori, a master of the tea ceremony in the Edo period.

Warabe-Jizo(わらべ地蔵) On the south side of Ojo Gokuraku-in, there are small Jizo statues standing beside Benten Pond. These Jizo statues, named Warabe Jizo, were created by Takashi Sugimura, a stone sculptor.

Yusei-en and Shin-den(有清園と宸殿)

Osana-Roku Jizo(おさな六地蔵) "Roku" in Rokujizo does not mean the number of Jizo, but it means the Jizo who saves from Rokudo. In Buddhism, the six realms (Rokudo) refer to the six worlds (or state of life) in which sentient beings(衆生) reincarnate as a result of their karma. The six worlds are Ten-do, Human-do, Shura-do, Animal-do, Gaki-do, and Hell-do. Of these, the path of heaven, humans, and  asura are called the three good ways, and the path of animals, hungry ghosts, and hell are called the three evil ways.

Ojou-Gokurakuinn(往生極楽院) The National Treasure Amida Nyorai statue, Kanzeon Bodhisattva statue on the right, and Seishi Bodhisattva statue on the left are enshrined.

2.鞍馬寺
鞍馬寺(くらまでら)は、京都市左京区鞍馬本町にある鞍馬弘教(くらまこうきょう)の総本山の寺院である。京都盆地の北に位置し、豊かな自然環境を残す鞍馬山の南斜面に位置する。鞍馬は牛若丸(源義経)が修行をした地として著名であり、能の『鞍馬天狗』でも知られる。

鞍馬山には、神代以前からの古神道陰陽道修験道等の山岳宗教の要素も含まれている。宗派に捉われない懐の深さは鞍馬寺の宗教伝統となっている。

2.Kurama-dera

Kurama-dera Temple is the head temple of Kurama Kokyo, located in Kurama Honmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. Located in the northern part of the Kyoto Basin, it is located on the southern slope of Mt. Kurama, where a rich natural environment remains. Kurama is famous as the place where Ushiwakamaru (Minamoto no Yoshitsune) trained, and is also known for the Noh drama "Kurama Tengu".

Mount Kurama also includes elements of mountain religions such as ancient Shinto, Onmyodo, Shugendo, etc. The depth of the tolerance that is not bound by sects is a religious tradition of Kurama Temple.

Nio-mon(San-mon) (仁王門 山門) temple gate guarded by fierce Deva Kings

Taho-to(多宝塔) two-storied pagoda

Honden(Main Hall)

rare tiger Koma-inu狛犬 dog) in front of Hon-den Kon-do(本殿金堂).This is also believed to be the influence of Shintoism. Why are Koma-inu tigers? The reason is that when Gantei Shonin(鑑禎上人), the founder of Kurama-dera Temple and a senior disciple of Ganjin Wajou(鑑真和上), was attacked by demons, he was saved by Bishamonten, and appeared on the Moon of the Tiger, the Day of the Tiger, and the Hour of the Tiger.

Monument of 'Inochi'  Statue of Love, Light and Power 'Life’  愛と光と力の像「命」

3.貴船神社
貴船神社(きふねじんじゃ)は、京都市左京区鞍馬貴船町にある神社である。貴船山と鞍馬山に挟まれた森林鬱蒼とする山峡に鎮座する。社前には賀茂川の上流に位置する貴船川が流れており、京の市中を潤す鴨川の源流とも考えられた。水の神様として、全国の料理・調理業や水を取扱う商売の人々から信仰を集めている。
古来より歴代天皇は干ばつの時には黒馬を、長雨には白馬を奉納して祈願をしていたといい、後に生きた馬に替えて、馬形の板に着色した「板立馬」を奉納したと伝えられる。これが現在の絵馬の原形となったため、貴船神社が「絵馬発祥の社」といわれる。
3.Kifune-jinja
Kifune-jinja Shrine is a shrine located in Kifune-cho, Kurama, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. It is enshrined in a densely forested mountain gorge between Mt. Kibune and Mt. Kurama. The Kifune River, which is located upstream of the Kamo River, flows in front of the shrine, and was thought to be the source of the Kamo River, which waters the city of Kyoto. As the god of water, it is worshiped by people in the food and cooking industries and businesses that handle water from all over Japan.
It is said that since ancient times, successive emperors have dedicated black horses during droughts and white horses during long rains. It is said that later, instead of live horses, horse-shaped colored boards called 'Itatateuma' were dedicated. Since this became the original form of the current ema, Kifune Shrine is said to be 'the birthplace of ema'.

 'the birthplace of ema'. An ema is a small wooden board that we write our wishes on and offer at a Shinto shrine. 

4.薬師寺
薬師寺(やくしじ)は、奈良県奈良市西ノ京町にある法相宗大本山の仏教寺院である。この寺は天武天皇9年(680年)、天武天皇の発願により、飛鳥の藤原京奈良県橿原市城殿〈きどの〉町)の地に造営が開始され、平城京への遷都後の8世紀初めに現在地の西ノ京に移転したものである。
東塔は、現在寺に残る建築のうち、奈良時代天平年間)に遡る唯一のものであり、総高34.1メートル(相輪含む)。この塔は、天平2年(730年)に平城京にて新築されたとする説が通説となっている。一見六重の塔に見えるが、下から1・3・5番目の屋根は裳階(もこし)であり、構造的には三重の塔である。仏塔建築としては他に類例のない意匠を示す。
4.Yakushi-ji
Yakushi-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Nishinokyo-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture. Construction of this temple began in the 9th year of Emperor Tenmu (680), at the request of Emperor Tenmu, on the grounds of Fujiwara-kyo in Asuka (Kidono-cho, Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture). It was moved to its present location, Nishinokyo, at the beginning of the century.
The East Pagoda is the only remaining building in the temple that dates back to the Nara period (Tenpyo era), with a total height of 34.1 meters (including the Sorin(finial of a Japanese pagoda)). The prevailing theory is that this pagoda was built in Heijo-kyo in 730. At first glance, it looks like a six-storied pagoda, but the first, third, and fifth roofs from the bottom are mokoshi (double-roof structure), and structurally it is a three-storied pagoda. As a pagoda architecture, it exhibits a unique design.

The east pagoda of Yakushiji Temple lit up. It is designated as a national treasure.

The West Pagoda was rebuilt in 1981. Compared to the East Pagoda, the vivid colors catch the eye, but it can also be said that the use of colors is representative of Nara.





















 

















 

京都・奈良の紅葉を愛でる旅(その1-宝厳院、天龍寺、嵐山・嵯峨野)A trip to enjoy the autumn leaves of Kyoto and Nara(Part 1-Hogon-in,Tenryu-ji,Arashiyama and Sagano)(Sunday, November 13, 2022-No.45)

京都・奈良の紅葉を愛でる旅(その1-宝厳院、天龍寺、嵐山・嵯峨野)A trip to enjoy the autumn leaves of Kyoto and Nara(Part 1-Hogon-in,Tenryu-ji,Arashiyama and Sagano)(Sunday, November 13, 2022-No.45)

1.宝厳院
大亀山 宝厳院 – 臨済宗大本山天龍寺塔頭寺院である
この庭は「獅子吼の庭」と呼ばれる借景回遊式庭園である。獅子の形をした獅子岩、岩から生えている破岩の松などが有名である。その名にある「獅子吼」とは「仏が説法する」の意味である。

1.Hougon-in
Daiki-Zan Hogon-in – a sub-temple of Tenryu-ji Temple, the head temple of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism
This garden is called 'Shishiku no Niwa' and is a strolling garden with borrowed scenery. It is famous for its lion-shaped rocks and rock-breaking pine trees growing out of the rocks.
The lion's roar (Shishiku) in its name means 'Buddha preaches'.

2.天龍寺
この寺は、正式には霊亀山天龍資聖禅寺(れいぎざんてんりゅうしせいぜんじ)と号する。天龍寺の曹源池庭園は、夢窓疎石作庭の、方丈に対して西側に位置する池泉回遊式庭園である。

2.Tenryu-ji
The official name of this temple is Reikizan Tenryu Shiseizenji. The Sogenchi Garden of Tenryu-ji Temple is a strolling pond garden located on the west side of the Hojo(Abbots' Quarters), which was created by Muso Soseki.

3.嵐山と嵯峨野
3.Arashiyama and Sagano

Togetsukyo is a bridge over the Katsura River that separates Sagano and Arashiyama.

"Bamboo path" where the bamboo grove that covers the sky continues for 400m.     a picture of the bamboo grove from the path dedicated to hand-pulled rickshaw(人力車) Thank you! Yoppy. He is a wonderful young man with a service spirit who pulls a rickshaw.

 

横浜港とその周辺 - Yokohama Port and its surroundings(Saturday, November 5, 2022-No.44)

横浜港とその周辺 - Yokohama Port and its surroundings(Saturday, November 5, 2022-No.44)

1.横浜港 Yokohama Port
横浜港(よこはまこう)は、神奈川県横浜市東京湾岸にある港湾である。港湾管理者は横浜市港湾法上の正式名称は横浜港だが、港内の船舶交通を図る港則法では京浜港横浜区と称される。その範囲は鶴見区沖合いより金沢区八景島の辺りまで7,260.5haに及ぶ。

横浜港は1858年7月29日に締結された日米修好通商条約安政五ヶ国条約)に基づき1859年7月1日に武蔵国久良岐郡横浜村(横浜市中区の関内付近)に築かれた。当初は生糸貿易の中心港として、後に京浜工業地帯の工業港、東京の外港として大きく発展した。

当初は現在の神奈川県庁本庁舎付近(中区日本大通)にあった運上所(税関)の沿岸に東西2つの波止場が設けられて貿易が始まった。大正期間にかけ新港埠頭などの港湾施設が整備されたことにより、神戸港とともに東西日本を代表する国際貿易港として日本の近代化を牽引した。

1.Yokohama Port

Yokohama Port is a port located on the coast of Tokyo Bay in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Yokohama City is the port administrator. Under the Port and Harbor Act, the official name is Yokohama Port, but according to the Port Regulations Act, it is called Keihin Port Yokohama District. The area covers 7,260.5 ha from offshore Tsurumi Ward to around Hakkeijima in Kanazawa Ward.

Based on the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between Japan and the United States (the Ansei Five Powers Treaty) concluded on July 29, 1858, Yokohama Port was established in Yokohama Village, Kuraki District, Musashi Province (near Kannai in Naka Ward, Yokohama City) on July 1, 1859. Built. Initially, it was a central port for the raw silk trade, and later it developed greatly as an industrial port in the Keihin industrial area and an outer port of Tokyo.

At first, two wharves were set up on the east and west coasts of the Unjosho (customs house) near the current Kanagawa Prefectural Government Office (Nihon Odori, Naka Ward), and trade began. Through the development of port facilities such as the new port wharf during the Taisho period, along with Kobe Port, it led the modernization of Japan as an international trading port representing east and west Japan.

Two JMSDF ships (Atago and mogami)

Life-size Mobile Suit Gundam

miracle collaboration! Mobile Suit Gundam and Atago-class destroyer

2.横浜外国人墓地 
19世紀から20世紀半ばにかけての40ヶ国余、4400人余りの外国人が葬られている。1854年に、2度目の来航により横浜港に寄港していたアメリカ海軍の水兵ロバート・ウィリアムズ(24歳)がフリゲートミシシッピ」のマスト上から誤って転落死し、艦隊を指揮していたマシュー・ペリーはその埋葬地の用意を幕府に要求した。海の見えるところに墓地を設置して欲しいというペリーの意向を受け横浜村の増徳院の境内の一部にウィリアムズの墓が設置されたことに由来する。その後も外国人死者がその付近に葬られ、1861年文久元年)に外国人専用の墓地が定められた。
2.Yokohama Foreign General Cemetery
More than 4,400 foreigners from more than 40 countries from the 19th century to the middle of the 20th century are buried here. In 1854, 24-year-old US Navy sailor Robert Williams, who was calling at the port of Yokohama on his second visit, fell to his death from the mast of the frigate Mississippi. Perry requested the shogunate to prepare the burial ground. It comes from the fact that Williams' grave was set up in a part of the precincts of Zotoku-in Temple in Yokohama Village in response to Perry's desire to set up a cemetery where he could see the sea. After that, the dead of foreigners were buried in the vicinity, and in 1861, a cemetery exclusively for foreigners was established.

3.港の見える丘公園異人館めぐり
幕末に横浜が開港した際に、イギリス軍とフランス軍が当地に駐留した。その後、太平洋戦争後も、アメリカ軍など進駐軍がこの地を接収した。接収が解除になってから、横浜市が公園用地として手に入れ整備し、1962年(昭和37年)10月25日に風致公園として一般者が立ち入ることができるようになった。山下公園と並んで、横浜市の観光地の公園の一つで、横浜港を見渡せる高台に位置する。

山手エリアには「横浜市イギリス館」や「エリスマン邸」「ブラフ18番館」「外交官の家」など、全部で7つの西洋館がある。いずれも事前予約不要・入館無料で誰でも見学できる。

3.Minato-no-Mieruoka Park and Ijinkan Tour

When the port of Yokohama opened at the end of the Edo period, British and French troops were stationed there. After that, even after the Pacific War, occupation forces such as the U.S. Army took over this area. After the requisition was lifted, the city of Yokohama obtained the land for use as a park and developed it, and on October 25, 1962, it was opened to the general public as a scenic park.
Along with Yamashita Park, it is one of the tourist parks in Yokohama City and is located on a hill overlooking Yokohama Port.

In the Yamate area, there are a total of seven Western-style buildings, including the Yokohama City British House, Ehrismann Residence, Bluff No. 18, and the Diplomat's House. No reservations are required and admission is free, and anyone can visit.

4.氷川丸
氷川丸」は、横浜船渠(現三菱重工業横浜製作所)で建造された1万トン級貨客船であり、太平洋戦争では病院船として運用された。戦後は1960年(昭和35年)まで北太平洋航路で運航を続けた。

運航終了後は横浜市山下公園前(横浜港)に係留されている。戦前より唯一現存する日本の貨客船であり、船内のインテリアなども含めて貴重な産業遺産であるため、2003年(平成15年)には横浜市有形文化財の指定を受け、2007年(平成19年)に経済産業省の近代化産業遺産として認定、さらに2016年(平成28年)8月には国の重要文化財(歴史資料)に指定された。

4.The Hikawa Maru

The Hikawa Maru was a 10,000-ton class cargo-passenger ship built at the Yokohama Dockyard (currently Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Yokohama Works), and was used as a hospital ship during the Pacific War. After the war she continued to operate on the North Pacific route until 1960.

After the end of the operation, it is moored in front of Yamashita Park (Yokohama Port) in Yokohama City. It is the only Japanese cargo-passenger ship that has survived from the pre-war period, and is a valuable industrial heritage, including the interior of the ship. 2019), it was designated as a modern industrial heritage by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and in August 2016, it was designated as a national important cultural property (historical material).

古都鎌倉の寺社巡り(その4-海蔵寺・浄光明寺・寿福寺)- Visiting temples and shrines in the ancient capital of Kamakura (Part 4 Kaizoji,Johkoumyouji and Jyuhukuji)(October 31, 2022-No.43)

古都鎌倉の寺社巡り(その4-海蔵寺・浄光明寺寿福寺)-Visiting temples and shrines in the ancient capital of Kamakura (Part 4  Kaizoji,Johkoumyouji and Jyuhukuji)(October 31, 2022-No.43)

1.海蔵寺

 海蔵寺(かいぞうじ)は、神奈川県鎌倉市扇ガ谷(おうぎがやつ)にある臨済宗建長寺派の寺院である。山号は扇谷山(せんこくざん)。本尊は薬師如来。1253年に宗尊親王の命により藤原仲能が創建し、鎌倉幕府滅亡時に焼失、1394年に上杉氏定(1374-1416)の開基、心昭空外(1329-1400 源翁禅師)を開山として再興されたと伝えられる。
 この寺は花の寺として有名で、四季を通じてさまざまな花々が咲く。境内はこじんまりとしているが、茅葺の庫裏や鐘楼と植物の配置バランスが素晴らしく、境内をさまざまな角度から見て楽しむことができる。

 海蔵寺に向かう途中の亀ヶ谷坂の入口に、源頼朝の娘である大姫を祀る岩船地蔵堂がある。岩船地蔵堂海蔵寺により管理されている。
大姫は、NHK大河ドラマ「鎌倉殿の13人」でその生涯が描かれ、悲劇のヒロインとして知れ渡った。頼朝と北条政子の長女・大姫は、まだ頼朝が伊豆の流人だった1178年の誕生と考えられている。大姫の婿となった木曽義高は、木曽義仲の長男である。1183年に挙兵した義仲は、頼朝と対立したが、長男義高を人質として差し出すことで和睦した。
 大姫も義高に懐き幸せに暮らしていたが、1184年正月、頼朝の命によって上洛した源義経らに義仲が討たれた。父の頼朝によって義高も殺されたと知ると、幼い大姫は病の床に臥し、水も口にできないほど衰弱したという。大姫の精神的なショックは大きく、それが回復することはなかったという。

1.Kaizoji

Kaizo-ji is a temple of the Kenchoji school of the Rinzai sect located in Ougigayatsu, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The mountain name is Senkokuzan. The principal object of worship is Yakushi Nyorai. It is said that Fujiwara no Nakayoshi founded the temple in 1253 by order of Prince Munetaka, burned down when the Kamakura shogunate was destroyed, and was rebuilt in 1394 by Uesugi Ujisada (1374-1416) as the founder of Shinsho Kugai.
This temple is famous as a temple of flowers, and various flowers bloom throughout the four seasons. The precincts are small, but the arrangement of the thatched temple kitchen, bell tower, and plants are wonderfully balanced, and you can enjoy looking at the precincts from various angles.

At the entrance of Kamegayazaka on the way to Kaizo-ji Temple, there is Iwafune Jizo-do Hall, where Ohime, the daughter of Minamoto no Yoritomo, is enshrined. Iwafune Jizo-do is managed by Kaizoji Temple.
Ohime became known as the heroine of her tragedy in the NHK Taiga drama "THE 13 LORDS OF THE SHOGUN". Ohime, the eldest daughter of Yoritomo and Hojo Masako, is believed to have been born in 1178, when Yoritomo was still exiled to Izu. Kiso Yoshitaka, who became the son-in-law of Ohime, was the eldest son of Kiso Yoshinaka. Yoshinaka, who raised an army in 1183, conflicted with Yoritomo, but reconciled with Yoritomo by offering his eldest son Yoshitaka as a hostage.
Ohime also fell in love with Yoshitaka and lived happily, but in January 1184, Yoshinaka was killed by Minamoto no Yoshitsune and others who went to Kyoto by order of Yoritomo. It is said that upon learning that her father, Yoritomo, had also killed Yoshitaka, the young Ohime was bedridden with her illness and so weakened that she could not even drink water.  Ohime's mental shock was so great that she said she never recovered from it.

Iwafune Jizo-do Hall, where Ohime, the daughter of Minamoto no Yoritomo, is enshrined. Iwafune Jizo-do is managed by Kaizoji Temple.

2.浄明光寺
光明寺(じょうこうみょうじ)は、神奈川県鎌倉市扇ガ谷(おうぎがやつ)にある真言宗泉涌寺派の寺院である。山号は泉谷山(せんこくざん)。開基は北条長時(1230-1264、鎌倉幕府第6代執権)。開山は真阿(?-1296)。本尊は阿弥陀如来である。北条氏や足利氏とゆかりの深い寺院で、足利尊氏後醍醐天皇に対し挙兵する直前、当寺に籠っていたと伝える。
山門を入ると客殿、庫裏、不動堂などがあり、その裏手の一段高くなった敷地に阿弥陀堂と収蔵庫がある。重要文化財阿弥陀三尊像等は収蔵庫に安置されている。境内は、谷戸を雛壇状に造成した中世寺院の景観がよく保存されている。

2.Jokomyoji

Jokomyo-ji is a temple of the Sennyu-ji school of the Shingon sect located in Ougigayatsu, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The mountain name is Senkokuzan. The foundation was Hojo Nagatoki (1230-1264, 6th regent of the Kamakura Shogunate). The founder was Shin-a (?-1296). The principal object of worship is Amida Nyorai. The temple has a deep connection with the Hojo clan and the Ashikaga clan, and it is said that Ashikaga Takauji shut himself up in this temple just before raising an army against Emperor Godaigo.

When you enter the temple gate, you will find the reception hall, the temple kitchen, the Fudo-do, etc., and the Amida-do and the storage are located on the raised grounds behind them. The Amida Sanzon statues, which are important cultural properties, are enshrined in the storehouse. In the precincts, the scenery of a medieval temple with a valley made into a tiered platform has been well preserved.

3.寿福寺

 寿福寺(じゅふくじ)は、神奈川県鎌倉市扇ヶ谷にある臨済宗建長寺派の寺院である。正式には亀谷山寿福金剛禅寺(きこくさん じゅふくきんごうぜんじ)と号する。本尊は釈迦如来、開基(創立者)は北条政子(1157-1225)である。鎌倉幕府を開いた源頼朝の御台所であり、子は頼家、実朝、大姫、三幡である。頼朝亡きあと征夷大将軍となった嫡男・頼家、次男・実朝が相次いで暗殺された後は、幕政の実権を握り、世に尼将軍(あましょうぐん)と称された。また、開山(初代住職)は栄西(1141-1215)である。日本における臨済宗の開祖、京都の建仁寺の開山である。また、廃れていた喫茶の習慣を日本に再び伝えたことでも知られる。

 創建当時は七堂伽藍を擁し、14の塔頭を有する大寺院で、禅刹として体裁を整えたのは1278年(弘安元年)頃と推定されている。 1247年に火災にあい、1258年の火災では一宇を残さぬまで焼失している。これらの復興は、おそらく南北朝時代の頃と思われる。仏殿は1664年の再建である。

 境内裏手の墓地には、陸奥宗光高浜虚子星野立子大佛次郎などの墓がある。さらにその奥のやぐら(鎌倉地方特有の横穴式の墓所)には、北条政子と源の実朝の墓と伝わる五輪塔がある。なお、総門から中門までの参道と裏山の墓地は公開されているが、中門から内側の境内は一般公開されていない。なお、総門から中門までの参道と裏山の墓地は公開されているが、中門から内側の境内は一般公開されていない。

Jufukuji is a temple of the Kenchoji school of the Rinzai sect located in Ogigayatsu, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The official name is Kikokusan Jufuku Kingo Zenji. The principal image is Shaka Nyorai, and the financial founder is Hojo Masako (1157-1225). She was the wife of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura shogunate, and her children were Yoriie, Sanetomo, Ohime, and San-man. After Yoritomo's death, his legitimate son Yoriie and his second son Sanetomo, who became the Shogun, were assassinated one after another, and after that, he took control of the shogunate government and was called Ama-shougun (nun Shogun). The founder (first head priest) was Eisai (1141-1215). He is the founder of the Rinzai sect in Japan and the founder of Kenninji Temple in Kyoto. He is also known for bringing the obsolete custom of tea drinking back to Japan.

At the time of its foundation, it was a large temple with seven temples and 14 sub-temples, and it is estimated that it was established around 1278 as a Zen temple. It was destroyed in a fire in 1247, and in 1258 it was completely destroyed. These revivals are probably around the period of the Northern and Southern Courts. The Buddhist temple (buddha hall ) was rebuilt in 1664.

In the cemetery behind the precincts, there are graves of Mutsu Munemitsu, Takahama Kyoshi, Hoshino Ritsuko, Osaragi Jiro, and others. In addition, in the yagura (a horizontal graveyard peculiar to the Kamakura region) in the back, there is a five-ring pagoda, which is said to be the tomb of Hojo Masako and Minamoto no Sanetomo.

The approach from the main gate to the middle gate and the cemetery on the hill behind are open to the public, but the precincts inside from the middle gate are not open to the public.

There is a five-ring pagoda, which is said to be the tomb of Hojo Masako.