Overview
Shōfuku-ji is a temple of the Nichiren school in Aoyagi, Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi. Its mountain name is Jumyō-zan, and it has long been known as a temple of prayer and ritual. It is especially famous for mushi-kaji, a rite believed to calm the fretfulness of infants, earning it the nickname the temple that cuts the worms. It is also counted among the Kai 108 Pilgrimage Sites.
Highlights
- ●A Nichiren temple of prayer bearing the mountain name Jumyō-zan
- ●The folk faith in mushi-kaji to calm fretful infants
- ●A venerable ritual history as the Kyōō prayer hall
- ●One of the Kai 108 Pilgrimage Sites
History
The twelfth abbot, Ichidōin Nichihō, is said to have healed the illness of Emperor Reigen through prayer ritual, and for this the temple came to be called the Kyōō prayer hall. Ever since, it has been known for the efficacy of its prayers, and today people visit for the mushi-kaji rite, praying for the healthy growth of their children. Its former head temple is Kuon-ji on Mount Minobu, and it belongs to the Nichiren school through the Kagamishi lineage (Zengakukai).
Access
The temple stands in Aoyagi, Fujikawa Town (around 35.56°N, 138.46°E). It is close to the Masuho interchange of the Chubu-Odan Expressway, making a car the most convenient way to visit. Nearest stations and bus services for public transport may change, so please confirm the details through official sources before your visit.
Best season
As a temple of prayer it can be visited year-round, though New Year and milestone prayers draw many worshippers. Since the mushi-kaji rite may follow set dates, it is best to check in advance. The town along the Fuji River is beautiful through the seasons, and the fresh green of spring and the colors of autumn make fine times to call.
Map
35.5585, 138.4639 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Drive from the Masuho interchange to Aoyagi in Fujikawa Town
- 2Visit Shōfuku-ji and pay respects in the main hall of Jumyō-zan
- 3Ask about the mushi-kaji rite for children's wellbeing
- 4Stroll the townscape and nature along the Fuji River
Did you know?
💡 The name Kyōō prayer hall derives from the story of Abbot Nichihō, who is said to have cured an emperor's illness through ritual prayer. Today, known as the temple that cuts the worms, it is visited by families praying to ease infants' night crying and fretfulness.
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