Dojoji Temple [Tokyo]

【Overview of Dojoji Temple】

Like the neighboring Shakujii Hikawa Shrine and Sanpoji Temple, Dojoji Temple is said to have been founded during the Oei era (1394–1428) of the Muromachi period. Its official name is Hojuzan Dojoji. It was established by the lord of Shakujii Castle, the Toshima clan.

As the bodaiji (family temple) of the Toshima clan, the temple still carefully protects the memorial towers (kuyoto) dedicated to the clan and to Kagemura, the father of Toshima Yasutsune (the lord under whom the castle fell). Belonging to the Soto sect, this historic Zen temple is also widely known as the second station along the Musashino 33 Kannon Pilgrimage route.

The temple enshrines Shaka Nyorai (Gautama Buddha) as its primary deity.

【Dojoji Temple Sammon Gate】

The current Sammon Gate of Dojoji Temple was built in 1672, during the early Edo period (the 12th year of the Kanbun era).

Showcasing the rugged simplicity and fortitude of early Edo-period architecture to this day, the gate is currently designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Nerima Ward.

【Dojoji Temple Three-Story Pagoda (Sanjunoto)】

The pagoda was erected in 1973 (the 48th year of the Showa era) to commemorate the 570th anniversary of Dojoji’s founding, as well as the significant death anniversaries (enki) of the sect’s founders, Zen Master Dogen and Zen Master Keizan.

Modeled after the architectural styles of the Kamakura period, it is an exceptionally elegant and beautiful wooden structure. Despite being relatively modern, it possesses a calm, dignified presence that blends seamlessly into the scenery of the Zen temple.

【Dojoji Temple Bell Tower (Shorodo)】

Like the Sammon Gate (1672), the Shorodo of Dojoji is presumed to have been built during the Kanbun era (1661–1673) of the early Edo period.

Regrettably, the original bell was lost during World War II due to the military metal drives (requisitioned to be melted down for weapons). The bell standing today was recast after the war.

【Dojoji Temple Main Hall (Hondo)】

The current Main Hall of Dojoji was rebuilt in 1971 (the 46th year of the Showa era). While partially incorporating a reinforced concrete structure, the building features a wooden-style design that exhibits a dignified, crisp beauty and a rugged simplicity characteristic of the Zen (Soto) sect.

【Dojoji Temple Toshima Clan Memorial Towers (Kuyoto)】

The Toshima Clan Memorial Towers stand in a quiet, secluded corner of the Dojoji precinct. They were erected to comfort the souls of Toshima Kagemura (the father of Toshima Yasutsune) and their clan’s lineage. The oldest of these towers date back to the Muromachi period (the 1400s). Holding immense historical value, they are designated as Cultural Properties of Nerima Ward.

【Dojoji Temple Statue of Taishakusonten】

To the right side of the Main Hall stands the Statue of Taishakusonten.

This statue at Dojoji was crafted in 1671 (the 11th year of the Kanbun era). Despite being a work from over 350 years ago, it remains in an exceptionally well-preserved condition and is currently designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Nerima Ward.

【Dojoji Temple Nearby Tourist Spots (Within a 30-Minute Walk)】

Sanpoji Temple, Shakujii Hikawa Shrine, Shakujii Park, Nerima City Shakujii Park Furusato Culture Museum.

Sanpoji Temple [Tokyo]

Shakujii Hikawa Shrine & Shakujii Park [Tokyo]

The walking routes and itineraries are summarized below for your reference.

【石神井散策】東京石神井・深い森に眠る歴史の余韻を歩く

【Dojoji Temple Access】

関連投稿(Related Posts):

Sanpoji Temple [Tokyo] Shakujii Hikawa Shrine & Shakujii Park [Tokyo] Tennei-ji Temple [Tokyo] Genkaku-ji Temple (Konnyaku Enma) [Tokyo]