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Gumyoji Temple’s Niōmon Gate: A Journey Through Time
Location: Gumyoji, Minami Ward, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 18:19・2024/04/09
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 160 for 2.5 sec. at ƒ/8
Classic Negative film simulation
The Niōmon Gate (仁王門), originally built during the Edo period (1603-1868), stands as a reminder of the rich architectural heritage that is abundant throughout Japan. Rebuilt during the Edo period, the gate underwent significant repair work in 2002 to preserve it for future generations.
Above the entranceway, just below the eaves, a plaque inscribed with “山應瑞・Zuiōsan” caught my eye. This inscription, written right-to-left as is traditional, is the work of Sasaki Genryu (Sept. 22, 1650-March 28, 1723), a distinguished calligrapher and envoy who served the Tokugawa Shogunate.
Though not visible in the accompanying photograph, the Niōmon Gate houses two formidable statues: the Kongō-rikishi (金剛力士) on the right and the Misshaku-kongō (密迹金剛) on the left. These statues, collectively known as Niō (仁王), are revered as guardian deities, entrusted with protecting the temple's main entrance.
Crafted by a master sculptor from the Kamakura period, these statues are exemplary of the early Unkei style (運慶様), a renowned school of Buddhist sculpture. Dating back to the late 13th century, they hold the distinction of being the oldest surviving medieval works in Kanagawa Prefecture. In 2001, these invaluable statues were meticulously restored to ensure their preservation.
Beyond the gate, stone stairs beckon visitors upward, leading them to the serene grounds of Gumyoji Temple, a place steeped in spiritual tranquility and historical significance.
Glossary
- Niō (仁王): The Niō, or "Benevolent Kings," are fierce guardian deities standing vigil at the entrance of Buddhist temples. These powerful figures embody the duality and balance within the universe, and their presence is meant to protect the sacred grounds from evil spirits and negative influences.
- Mon (門): Mon (門) is a Japanese term for "gate," commonly used to describe the entrances to various types of buildings, including temples, shrines, homes, factories, and other structures.
- 運慶・Unkei (1148-1224): Unkei was a preeminent Japanese sculptor of the Kamakura period, renowned for his approach to Buddhist statuary. His work is celebrated for its dynamic expressiveness, heroic spirit, and powerful physicality.
References:
- Google Maps: Gumyoji Temple’s Niōmon Gate / 弘明寺の「仁王門」
- Gumyoji Temple: Niōmon Gate (Japanese)
- Wikipedia: Sasaki, Genryu・佐々木 玄竜 (Japanese)
- Dictionary of Japanese Buddhist Statuary (English)
- Japanese Buddhist History: Unkei (English)
- Japanese Buddhist History: Niō Guardians (English)
- David Bilbrey: A Tribute to the Lesser-Knowns (English)
- The Yokohama Standard: Gumyoji (Japanese)
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