“What kind of charms does Jitsugyo-ji Temple in Hakodate, Hokkaido have?”
“I want to know its historical features, highlights, and a smooth way to get there in detail!”
Do you have these questions while planning your sightseeing trip?
Jitsugyo-ji Temple is a distinguished historical temple known for its deep connection to the Battle of Hakodate, packed with irresistible highlights for history buffs and Shinsengumi fans. The more you learn about its historical background, such as the beautiful Japanese-Western eclectic architecture typical of Hakodate and the tranquil grounds, the more you will feel the value of visiting this charming spot.
In this article, we will thoroughly introduce the deep history and features of Jitsugyo-ji Temple, absolute must-see highlights, and how to get there without getting lost.
By reading to the end, you will fully grasp the charm of Jitsugyo-ji Temple, making your trip to Hakodate, Hokkaido even more fulfilling. Please use this as a reference before you go!
- What is Jitsugyo-ji Temple in Hakodate, Hokkaido? Explaining Its Features and History
- Must-See Highlights of Jitsugyo-ji Temple
- About Goshuin (Temple Seals) at Jitsugyo-ji Temple
- How to Get to Jitsugyo-ji Temple (Access Information)
- Recommended Sightseeing Spots Around Jitsugyo-ji Temple to Visit Together
- Conclusion: Visit the Charming Jitsugyo-ji Temple When Traveling to Hakodate, Hokkaido!
- A Message from the Guide
What is Jitsugyo-ji Temple in Hakodate, Hokkaido? Explaining Its Features and History
Basic Information and Origins of Jitsugyo-ji Temple
Jitsugyo-ji Temple is a Nichiren Buddhist temple located in the Motomachi area of Hakodate City, Hokkaido. Its history is quite old, reportedly founded in 1659 during the Edo period. Despite suffering from several great fires, it has been rebuilt repeatedly, walking alongside the history of Hakodate. Situated in a blessed location at the foot of Mount Hakodate, it blends into the surrounding exotic streets while firmly retaining its traditional Japanese elegance. It has long gathered deep faith as one of the hubs of Buddhist culture in Hokkaido.
The Historical Background as a Stage for the Battle of Hakodate
During the Battle of Hakodate, which took place from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji period, Jitsugyo-ji Temple was caught in a massive historical vortex. When the former Tokugawa shogunate forces occupied Hakodate, this temple was used as a station and field hospital for the Shinsengumi, holding a highly significant historical background. Wounded soldiers were brought into the temple grounds, and it is said that they were treated regardless of whether they were allies or enemies. Even today, historical ruins reminiscent of those times remain within the grounds, making it a precious place that conveys that turbulent era to the present.
Must-See Highlights of Jitsugyo-ji Temple
The Beautiful Main Hall with Hakodate’s Unique Japanese-Western Eclectic Style
The current main hall of Jitsugyo-ji Temple was rebuilt after being destroyed by fire. While based on traditional Japanese temple architectural styles, its eye-catching design features a beautiful Japanese-Western eclectic style that incorporates Western elements. The history of cross-cultural exchange, unique to Hakodate as an open-port city, is strongly reflected in the architecture of the main hall. A refined beauty can be felt within its majestic appearance, holding an extremely high value as an architectural structure.
A Must-Visit for Shinsengumi Fans! A Place Connected to Hijikata Toshizo
Because the Shinsengumi used Jitsugyo-ji Temple as one of their bases during the Battle of Hakodate, it has a deep connection to Hijikata Toshizo, the vice-commander of the Shinsengumi. It is also known as the place where memorial services were held for Shinsengumi members who died in battle, making it an absolute must-visit sacred site for fans. By actually standing on the grounds rather than just learning from history books, you can deeply feel the atmosphere of the Bakumatsu era when Hijikata Toshizo and his comrades fought.
Historical Stone Monuments and Memorial Towers Scattered Across the Grounds
The “Graves of French Sailors” as Proof of Japanese-French Friendship
Walking through the grounds of Jitsugyo-ji Temple, you can find tombstones mourning foreign soldiers. These are the graves where French sailors who died in the port of Hakodate during the end of the Edo period were buried, serving as an important historical monument that tells the story of international exchange at that time. The highly unusual sight of foreigners’ graves within a Japanese temple is a unique characteristic of Hakodate, which opened to overseas countries early as a port city.
The Monument Mourning the Fallen of the Battle of Hakodate
Jitsugyo-ji Temple, which served as a field hospital for the former shogunate army, also has a memorial monument erected to console the souls of those who lost their lives in the Battle of Hakodate. Standing before this monument, which mourns many nameless warriors who fell in battle beyond the boundaries of the new government and former shogunate forces, prayers for peace naturally arise. It is an important highlight that quietly conveys the preciousness of life along with the sorrow of history.
About Goshuin (Temple Seals) at Jitsugyo-ji Temple
Features of the Goshuin Available at Jitsugyo-ji Temple
Receiving goshuin is one of the joys of visiting shrines and temples, and you can receive a powerful and beautiful goshuin at Jitsugyo-ji Temple as well. In the center, the characteristic Hige-Daimoku of the Nichiren sect is written with dynamic brushstrokes, making it highly impressive to look at. The goshuin, which exudes a sense of solemnity and dignity unique to a historic temple, will surely become a wonderful memento of your Hakodate sightseeing trip.
Reception Hours and Fees for Goshuin
Goshuin are handled at the temple office next to the main hall. When visiting, it is safe to go during general temple visiting hours, from morning until evening. It is recommended to visit with plenty of time, as the head priest may be absent due to Buddhist services or the hours may change. The offering fee for the goshuin is the standard amount, and having small change ready so that you do not need change will make the process smoother.
How to Get to Jitsugyo-ji Temple (Access Information)
How to Get There by Train (Hakodate City Tram)
For access to Jitsugyo-ji Temple, using the Hakodate City Tram is highly recommended for sightseeing. The nearest station is the Hakodate-Dokku-Mae tram stop. After getting off the tram, you walk up a gentle slope toward the foot of Mount Hakodate. The appeal of this route is that you can access the temple while enjoying a stroll through the nostalgic surrounding streets.
How to Get There by Route Bus
You can also head there using a route bus from the Hakodate Station area. Take a bus heading towards the Funamicho area and get off at the nearest bus stop. Since it is only a few minutes’ walk from the bus stop, taking a route bus is very convenient for those who do not want to walk much or on days with bad weather. Checking your destination and timetable at the bus terminal in front of Hakodate Station in advance will ensure a smooth trip.
How to Get There by Car and Parking Information
If you are visiting by rental car or your own vehicle, it is located just a few minutes’ drive from Hakodate Station. However, the roads around Jitsugyo-ji Temple are narrow, with many steep slopes and one-way streets, so you must drive with extreme caution. As parking space for visitors may be limited, it is best to assume that you might need to use a nearby paid coin parking lot and walk from there if the temple parking is full.
Recommended Sightseeing Spots Around Jitsugyo-ji Temple to Visit Together
The Exotic Church Group in the Motomachi Area
If you walk a little further from Jitsugyo-ji Temple, you will arrive at the Motomachi area, where structures like the Hakodate Orthodox Church and the Motomachi Roman Catholic Church stand side by side. Stepping out of the Japanese tranquility of Jitsugyo-ji Temple into an exotic landscape lined with Western architecture is an appeal completely unique to Hakodate. The distinct streetscape where different cultures and religious facilities coexist side by side makes just walking around an exciting experience.
A Staple of Hakodate Sightseeing: Hakodateyama Ropeway
When you come to Hakodate, the night view from Mount Hakodate is something you cannot miss. The area around Jitsugyo-ji Temple offers easy access to the base station of the Hakodateyama Ropeway. It is highly recommended to take the ropeway to the summit in the evening after visiting temples and historical spots during the day. From the observation deck at the summit, you can take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the beautiful cityscape of Hakodate, including the Motomachi area where Jitsugyo-ji Temple is located, interwoven with the sea.
Conclusion: Visit the Charming Jitsugyo-ji Temple When Traveling to Hakodate, Hokkaido!
Jitsugyo-ji Temple goes beyond being just an old temple; it is a highly fascinating spot that conveys turning points in Japanese history today, such as the Battle of Hakodate and the Shinsengumi. It is full of highlights, including the beautiful Japanese-Western eclectic main hall and historical memorial towers remaining on the grounds. Excellent accessibility and a location that makes it easy to visit along with surrounding sightseeing spots are also great points. When traveling to Hakodate, Hokkaido, be sure to visit Jitsugyo-ji Temple to experience its deep history and tranquil atmosphere.
A Message from the Guide
The nearby Koryu-ji Temple is also highly recommended, so it would be a great idea to visit both temples together.
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