“What kind of history does Saishoji Temple in Niigata Prefecture have?”
“Is it true that the oldest living Buddha in Japan is enshrined here?”
“I want to know access methods and highlights in advance.”
You might be thinking this while planning your trip.
Saishoji Temple is the oldest famous temple in Echigo, located in Nagaoka City (formerly Teradomari Town), Niigata Prefecture. It enshrines “Kochi Hoin,” who became a sokushinbutsu (living Buddha) after severe ascetic practices over 600 years ago, and is known as a precious spot where you can view his revered figure.
This article explains Saishoji’s history, features, and its greatest highlight, the sokushinbutsu, in detail. It also covers power spot information and access by car or public transport.
Reading this before visiting will surely make your experience more profound. Please read until the end.
- What is Saishoji Temple? A Famous Temple with the Oldest History in Echigo
- [Biggest Highlight] Japan’s Oldest Sokushinbutsu “Kochi Hoin”
- There’s More! Must-See Spots and Treasures in Saishoji Precincts
- Basic Information of Saishoji (Admission, Hours, Goshuin)
- Access Methods to Saishoji and Parking
- Surrounding Sightseeing Spots to Visit with Saishoji
- Summary
- A Message from the Guide
What is Saishoji Temple? A Famous Temple with the Oldest History in Echigo
Saishoji Temple is located in Teradomari Nozumi, Nagaoka City, on the Sea of Japan side of Niigata Prefecture, and boasts the oldest history in the Echigo province. Quietly nestled in the mountains surrounded by rich nature, this place goes beyond being a mere tourist spot and serves as a special space where visitors feel silence and awe. First, let us touch upon the long history this ancient temple has walked and its unique atmosphere.
History and Origin of 1300 Years Since Foundation
The history of Saishoji dates back approximately 1300 years to the Nara period. It is said to have been founded by the high priest Gyoki Bodhisattva in the 5th year of Tenpyo (733) at the request of Emperor Shomu. It flourished as a center of Buddhist culture in Echigo and has gathered much faith since ancient times. Throughout its long history, it is said to have received generous patronage from historical figures such as Minamoto no Yoritomo and Uesugi Kenshin, and many cultural assets and historical remains are preserved within the precincts. It is truly a place that can be called a spiritual pillar of Niigata Prefecture, and the weight of its history overwhelms visitors.
Atmosphere of the Grounds Known as a Power Spot
Upon entering the precincts, a sacred air that is isolated from the hustle and bustle of the outside world drifts about. Saishoji is located at the foot of Mount Yahiko, blessed with a magnificent natural environment with deep forests behind it and the Sea of Japan below. In addition to this topographical feature, it is known as one of the leading power spots in Niigata Prefecture because it is filled with the unique power of the land that has been revered as a place of training since ancient times. Many worshipers feel as if their minds are washed just by walking along the approach surrounded by cedar groves, making it an ideal place for those who want to quietly face themselves or seek purification of mind and body.
[Biggest Highlight] Japan’s Oldest Sokushinbutsu “Kochi Hoin”
Many people visit Saishoji for the purpose of viewing “Kochi Hoin,” who became a sokushinbutsu. Although there are several sokushinbutsu existing in Japan, Kochi Hoin enshrined at Saishoji is widely known as the oldest sokushinbutsu among them. Here, we will explain his personality, the circumstances under which he became a sokushinbutsu, and the mindset for viewing.
What Kind of Person was Kochi Hoin?
Kochi Hoin was a high priest who lived from the late Kamakura period to the Nanboku-cho period. Born in Shimosa province, which corresponds to present-day Chiba Prefecture, he aspired to the Buddhist path from a young age and underwent severe training in various places including Mount Koya. He dedicated his life to the salvation of people and is said to have performed numerous miracles. In his later years, he decided to make this land of Saishoji his final resting place and resolved to dedicate his life to further training and saving all living beings. His noble spirit and deep compassionate heart are still handed down to many people even after hundreds of years.
The Figure of the Sokushinbutsu Left After Severe Training
Sokushinbutsu refers to the ultimate form of asceticism where one enters the earth while alive after severe training and becomes a Buddha as they are. Kochi Hoin entered a stone chamber himself in the 2nd year of Joji (1363) at the age of 82 and became a sokushinbutsu. The figure enshrined at Saishoji strongly retains the traces of his life despite the passage of over 600 years. From his figure, an extraordinary mental strength and a strong will that continued to wish for people’s peace are keenly conveyed. Even modern scientific surveys have proven its good state of preservation, and he is revered as a miraculous existence.
Benefits Received from Visiting and Manners
It is said that by viewing the sokushinbutsu of Kochi Hoin, one can receive a wide range of benefits such as good health, longevity, and academic achievement. Faith is particularly strong among people who wish for a strong heart to overcome any difficulties and for recovery from illness. When viewing, it is most important not to forget a reverent feeling. Since the hall where the sokushinbutsu is enshrined is a sacred place, refrain from private conversation, remove hats and sunglasses, and pray quietly. Also, to show respect to the Buddha, photography inside the hall is strictly prohibited. By observing manners and joining your hands in quiet contemplation, you should be able to feel the virtue of Kochi Hoin more deeply.
There’s More! Must-See Spots and Treasures in Saishoji Precincts
The charm of Saishoji is not limited to the sokushinbutsu. In the vast precincts, there are many highlights dotted around, such as giant trees with historical legends, a treasure hall housing valuable cultural assets, and scenic spots. We will introduce recommended points that you should take time to visit slowly.
Overwhelming Vitality! The 800-Year-Old Great Ginkgo Tree
Standing out with a distinct presence in the precincts is the great ginkgo tree, said to be over 800 years old. This ginkgo is also called the “Reverse Ginkgo,” and a legend remains that when Shinran Shonin visited Saishoji, he inserted the ginkgo staff he was holding upside down, and it took root and grew large from there. It features a unique tree shape where branches grow downward, and its strong vitality gives energy to those who see it. In autumn, it is dyed in golden color and is also popular as a photogenic spot that beautifully colors the precincts.
Valuable Important Cultural Properties in the Treasure Hall
The Treasure Hall located in the precincts displays numerous temple treasures that tell the long history of Saishoji. Many important cultural properties with high historical and artistic value are housed there, including items related to Kochi Hoin, letters donated by successive imperial families and military commanders, Buddhist statues, and paintings. In particular, materials related to sokushinbutsu and exhibits that allow you to know the form of faith in old times are a must-see. Even if you are not a history fan, you will be drawn into its depth.
Historic Sites Associated with Shinran Shonin
As mentioned in the legend of the Reverse Ginkgo, Saishoji has a deep connection with Shinran Shonin, the founder of Jodo Shinshu. It is said that when Shinran Shonin was exiled to Echigo, he stopped at this place and spread the teachings of Nembutsu. Stones where Shinran Shonin is said to have sat and places where he preached remain in the precincts, allowing visitors to trace the footsteps of the saint. This is also the reason why many Buddhists visit regardless of their sect.
Observation Deck Overlooking the Sea of Japan and Sado Island
Since Saishoji is located on a small mountain, it boasts an excellent location where you can overlook the Sea of Japan from the precincts. The view from the observation deck is particularly wonderful, and on clear days, you can clearly see the silhouette of Sado Island across the sea. At dusk, the beautiful sunset sinking into the Sea of Japan dyes the sky and sea in madder red, spreading a fantastic landscape. It is also recommended to refresh yourself by looking at the majestic natural scenery in between exploring history.
Basic Information of Saishoji (Admission, Hours, Goshuin)
To make your visit smooth, we have summarized the basic information you want to know in advance. Check the information on opening hours, fees, and Goshuin (red stamps) to plan with plenty of time.
Visiting Hours and Closed Days
Visiting hours for Saishoji are generally from 9:00 AM to around 4:00 PM. Since there may be slight fluctuations depending on the season, it is recommended to check in advance during winter or bad weather. Basically, it accepts worshipers all year round, but viewing may be restricted due to temple events.
About Admission Fees
Entry to the precincts is free, but an admission fee is required to enter the hall where the sokushinbutsu is enshrined and the Treasure Hall. Generally, an admission fee of several hundred yen is set for adults. This admission fee is used as maintenance and management costs to protect and pass down valuable cultural assets and the sokushinbutsu to future generations. Please proceed to the hall after paying at the reception.
Goshuin and Charms Available at Saishoji
For those collecting Goshuin, Saishoji is a spot not to be missed. Here, in addition to the Goshuin of the principal image, you can receive a powerful Goshuin with the name of the sokushinbutsu “Kochi Hoin.” Also, at the conferment office, charms benefitting from the virtues of Kochi Hoin are popular. In particular, charms for “legs and loins” and charms wishing for “health and longevity” are appreciated not only for oneself but also as souvenirs for family and friends.
Access Methods to Saishoji and Parking
Since Saishoji is located in a mountainous area, it is important to check access methods in advance. We will introduce how to get there by car and by using public transportation.
Access by Car and Parking Information
Using a private car or rental car is the most convenient way to access Saishoji. It is about a 30 to 40-minute drive from the “Nakanoshima-Mitsuke IC” or “Sanjo-Tsubame IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway. The route entering the mountain side from the seaside National Route 402 (Nihonkai Sunset Line) has good scenery and is ideal as a driving course. A parking lot is fully equipped near the precincts, and there is ample space available for free. However, since you may pass through some narrow mountain roads along the way, please drive safely.
Access by Train/Bus (Public Transport)
When using public transportation, the nearest stations are “Teradomari Station” or “Bunsui Station” on the JR Echigo Line. However, there is a distance from the station to Saishoji, and moving on foot is difficult. It is common to use a taxi from the station, which takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Since route buses are very limited in number, it is wise to research the timetable in detail in advance or plan on the premise of using a taxi. You will also need to call a taxi locally for the return trip, so it is safe to keep the phone number handy.
Surrounding Sightseeing Spots to Visit with Saishoji
When visiting Saishoji, why not visit neighboring sightseeing spots as well? We will introduce spots where you can enjoy food and culture unique to Niigata.
Teradomari Fish Market Street (Fish Ameyoko)
Located about 10 minutes by car from Saishoji is “Teradomari Fish Market Street,” nationally famous as “Fish Ameyoko.” Fresh seafood caught in the Sea of Japan is lined up closely, and lively calls fly about. Beach grilling, crab soup, and seafood bowls that can be eaten on the spot are exquisite, making it perfect for lunch or choosing souvenirs. A course of stopping by after worshiping at Saishoji to enjoy the fruits of the sea has become a standard.
Yahiko Shrine
“Yahiko Shrine,” famous as the number one power spot in Niigata Prefecture, is also about a 20 to 30-minute drive from Saishoji. Familiar as “Oyahiko-sama,” it is a historical shrine that was also composed in the Man’yoshu. The precincts surrounded by a vast guardian forest are wrapped in a solemn atmosphere. By visiting together with Saishoji, you will be able to experience the spiritual culture and history of Niigata more deeply.
Summary
Saishoji Temple in Niigata Prefecture is a charming ancient temple where not only Japan’s oldest sokushinbutsu “Kochi Hoin” is enshrined, but also 1300 years of history, rich nature, and numerous legends breathe. The quiet power felt from the figure of the sokushinbutsu and the sacred air wrapping the precincts are special experiences that can only be tasted by actually visiting.
Cars are convenient for access, but in return, you can spend a quiet time away from everyday life. Why not go on a trip to satisfy your mind and body together with the surrounding Teradomari Fish Market Street and Yahiko Shrine? Please visit Saishoji referring to this article and touch its deep history and benefits.
A Message from the Guide
Dinner has to be fresh seafood and Japanese sake.
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