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Gumyoji Temple: From 1044 to Today
Location: Gumyoji, Minami Ward, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 18:32・2024/04/09
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 160 for 4.0 sec. at ƒ/6.4
Classic Negative film simulation
In this photo, we can see the main hall (本堂/Hondo) of Gumyoji Temple. The temple was originally founded on March 10, 1044, by the priest Koei (光慧上人/Koei Shonin). The current main hall, however, was rebuilt in 1766 under the guidance of the priest Chiko.
The building still incorporates some of the original materials from the 1044 structure, such as the hand-carved floorboards, beams, and rafters. Remarkably, after 930 years, the temple transitioned from a thatched roof to copper sheeting in 1976. This change likely reduced the labor needed for maintenance, lowered maintenance costs, and, most importantly, provided better weatherproofing and fire resistance.
The banner hanging from the eaves in front of the temple is a Japanese version of the Buddhist flag, featuring broad vertical stripes of blue, white, red, yellow, and green. Interestingly, I have also observed this banner at Shinto shrines, which likely reflects the historical fusion of Buddhism and Shinto traditions. This fusion was commonplace until 1868 when the Meiji government initiated efforts to separate the two belief systems.
Glossary
- 本堂/hondo: The main hall of worship at a Buddhist temple housing the principal images most revered by the particular sect of the temple.
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