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The Timeless Beauty of Jisso-ji Temple’s Cherry Blossoms and Bell
実相寺：歴史と復活の花が咲くお寺
Takeda Shingen (1521–1573) was a powerful feudal lord of Kai Province, known today as Yamanashi Prefecture. Renowned as the "Tiger of Kai," Shingen was a legendary military strategist and one of the most influential warlords of the late Sengoku period.
In 1559, Shingen became a patron of Jisso-ji Temple. Two years later, in 1561, he donated the site of a castle once owned by one of his vassals to the temple, facilitating its relocation to that very spot. Today, the temple still stands on this historic ground, surrounded by serene gardens and centuries-old cherry blossoms.
Jisso-ji Temple endured two devastating fires in 1735 and again in 1848. Tragically, the flames consumed all of its wooden structures and religious treasures. Yet, some relics withstood the destruction such as the gravestones near the temple, the bronze bell, and the ancient Yamataka Jindai Zakura cherry tree, which believed to be between 1,800 and 2,000 years old.
The bell tower captured in my photograph is a classic example of traditional Japanese architecture. The open wooden structure, supported by stout corner pillars, houses a large bronze bell. During ceremonies, a monk pulls back a wooden pole and strikes the bell with deliberate strength, producing a deep, resonant tone that echoes across the temple grounds. This architectural style dates back to the 13th century, preserving a design that has connected generations through ritual and tradition.
An inscription on the bronze bell reveals it was gifted to Jisso-ji Temple on July 16, 1655. Its significance is amplified by its survival through World War II. During the war, nearly 90% of Japan's ancient bronze bells (over 70,000 in total) were melted down for the war effort. Jisso-ji's bell is one of the few that survived, standing today as an important historic artifact and a symbol of resilience.
Visiting Jisso-ji Temple was like stepping back through centuries of Japanese history. The ancient cherry blossom trees, revered as divine symbols of resilience, are often prayed to by visitors seeking strength to overcome life's challenges. Alongside them stands the centuries-old bronze bell, another testament to endurance, having survived both time and war. Together, these sacred relics create an atmosphere steeped in tradition and reflection—a place where the past is not just remembered but deeply felt, inspiring hope and perseverance.
- Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
- Timestamp: 2025/04/08・06:42
- Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
- 105 mm ISO 100 for 1/40 sec. at ƒ/8
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