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Resonance of History: Gumyoji Temple's Belfry
Location: Gumyoji, Minami Ward, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 18:47・2024/04/09
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 160 for 20 sec. at ƒ/11
Classic Negative film simulation
In the serene setting of Gumyoji Temple, the bell suspended within this traditional belfry holds an historical and cultural significance. Recognized as a Yokohama City Tangible Cultural Property, this cast bronze bell is more than just a relic; it is a testament to the temple's enduring legacy.
The bell we see today was re-cast in 1798 for the third time since its inception, meaning that at least two earlier versions once rang across these temple grounds. While the reasons for recasting remain unknown, one can imagine various possibilities. Perhaps the bells were casualties of natural disasters such as earthquakes or fires. It's also possible they were melted down for war efforts or replaced by a benefactor’s request, reflecting the temple’s evolving history and support over the centuries.
One of the common New Year’s traditions in Japan is participating in the Joya-no-Kane at a local temple. This Japanese Buddhist ceremony involves ringing the temple bell 108 times to cleanse ourselves of the earthly desires accumulated over the year. Each strike symbolizes the removal of these desires, aligning with the Buddhist belief that humans are troubled by 108 earthly passions, which must be eradicated to attain peace.
My most recent Joya-no-Kane experience was at Gumyoji Temple on December 31, 2012. The temple was bustling with visitors in stark contrast to my first encounter with this ritual. That initial experience took place in the late 1990s at a quaint rural temple connected to my family's cemetery. There, amidst local families, we all took turns striking the bell under the watchful eye of the monk, who carefully counted each toll by moving 108 stones from a small bag.
As I reflect on these experiences, the serenity and communal spirit of the Joya-no-Kane ceremony resonates with me. Whether in the crowded spaces of Yokohama or the tranquil rural temples of my youth, the ringing of the bell always marks a meaningful transition, a cleansing moment that ushers in the hope and possibilities of a new year.
Glossary
- 梵鐘・Bonshō: A large, hanging bell at a Japanese Buddhist temple, which is commonly found at Buddhist temples throughout Japan, and used to summon the monks to prayer and to demarcate periods of time. Instead of a clapper, bonshō bells are struck from the outside, using either a handheld mallet or a beam suspended on ropes.
- 鐘楼堂・Shorodo: Belfry. A building in which a bell bonshō (梵鐘) is hung.
- 除夜の鐘・Joya-no-Kane: A Japanese Buddhist event held annually on New Year's Eve where a large bell, or bonshō, is struck at midnight of December 31 for 108 times.
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