Ekoin Temple

Ekoin is a Buddhist temple recognized around 350 years ago in the third year of Meireki (1657). This was the year when the so called Furisode Kaji, a great fire of Meireki, destroyed more than 100,000 lives and more than 60 % of Edo.In order to tribute the fire victims, the fourth Shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate, Ietsuna, issued a ruling granting land for burials in Honjo, later known as Ryogoku, on the east bank of the Sumida River, and ordering prayer for the repose of their souls.

Banninzuka a monument to honor their souls was constructed by the Shogun and a great memorial service was conducted by the Holy Priest Junyo of Zojoji Temple, the chief temple of the Jodo Sect.

A temple where the memorial chant, a prayer to Amida Buddha was to be offered was built at the same time. This was the origin of Ekoin and the founding principle of spreading Amida Buddha's benevolence to all souls of all living creatures continues today.It holds reveal of precious Buddhist statues and treasures owned by other temples around the country.

Admission: Free.

Hours: Dawn- dusk daily.

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Contact Information

Ekoin Temple
2-8-10 Ryogoku, Sumida-ku
130-0026 Tokyo

Tel. +81336347776
info@ekoin.or.jp
http://www.ekoin.or.jp/history_e.html