Hoto-ji Temple (宝塔寺)

Hoto-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple belonging to the Nichiren Sect located in Fushimi-ku Ward, Kyoto City. The sango (literally, "mountain name"), which is the title prefixed to the name of a Buddhist temple) is Fukakusayama (Mt. Fukakusa). Its principal image is Jikkai Mandala (Ten Realms Mandala).

Brief History

The temple's predecessor was the Shingon Sect Gokuraku-ji Temple (founded by Kanpaku (chief advisor to the emperor) FUJIWARA no Mototsune).

It was converted to the Nichiren Sect in 1307 by Nichizo.

In 1342, Nichizo passed away at Myoken-ji Temple and was cremated at Hoto-ji Temple.

Fell into ruin as a result of the Onin War.

It was revived in 1590 by Nichigin (a disciple of Nichigyo).

Other

The temple name Hoto-ji Temple (lit. burial ground temple) originated due to the fact that the remains Nichiren, Nichiro and Nichizo were interred at the temple.

A Momoyama period temple complex including the oldest tahoto pagoda in Kyoto and the main hall (Important Cultural Property) as well as seven sub-temples survive.

[Original Japanese]