Overview
Renshō-ji is a temple of the Nichiren school in Atsugi, Kanagawa Prefecture. Its mountain name is Hōtōzan, and its principal object of worship is the Ittō-ryōson-shibosatsu, a distinctively Nichiren arrangement centered on a jeweled stupa. Its former head temple was Hokekyō-ji in Nakayama (Ichikawa, Chiba), and it belongs to the Tasshi lineage. Set in a calm area a little away from central Atsugi, it is a quiet place to sense the form of the Nichiren honzon and the faith long handed down in the community.
Highlights
- ●A Nichiren-school temple with the mountain name Hōtōzan
- ●The principal image Ittō-ryōson-shibosatsu, centered on a jeweled stupa
- ●The temple legend known as Hoshi-kudari, the descent of the star
- ●A quiet precinct in the calm surroundings of Atsugi
History
Renshō-ji has carried on the Nichiren teaching, with its former head temple being Hokekyō-ji of Nakayama in old Shimōsa, and it is counted among the temples of the Tasshi lineage. Its principal image, the Ittō-ryōson-shibosatsu, places the two Buddhas Shakyamuni and Prabhūtaratna and four bodhisattvas around a central jeweled stupa, expressing the worldview of the Lotus Sutra. The temple is also known by the name Hoshi-kudari ("descent of the star") and has walked alongside local devotion. For details of its founding, checking official information or on-site notices is recommended.
Access
The temple is in Atsugi, Kanagawa Prefecture, at roughly 35.48°N, 139.37°E. Access is generally by bus or car from around Hon-Atsugi Station on the Odakyū Line, through a calm area of homes and open countryside. As public-transport connections and visiting hours may change, it is wise to confirm with official information or the temple before you go.
Best season
Unless you are aiming for a particular event, spring into early summer, when the greenery is fresh, and clear-aired autumn suit an unhurried visit. Services may be held on Nichiren observance days, so if you prefer a quiet visit, check the schedule before you come.
Map
35.4813, 139.3682 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head to Renshō-ji in Atsugi from around Hon-Atsugi Station
- 2Pass through the gate and walk the quiet grounds of Hōtōzan
- 3Join your hands before the Nichiren honzon in the main hall
- 4Reflect on the Hoshi-kudari legend and stroll the calm surrounding streets
Did you know?
💡 The temple has long been told of under the alternate name Hoshi-kudari, or "descent of the star." The story behind the name is bound up with local faith, and reading the on-site notices adds depth to a visit. Being able to actually venerate the Nichiren honzon, the Ittō-ryōson-shibosatsu, is itself a highlight.
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