About
In a tranquil corner of Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture, stands Morinji Temple, transcending the flow of time. This temple is known as the setting for the fairy tale “Bunbuku Chagama” and invites visitors into a fantastical world.
Upon entering the approach path, you are greeted by 21 raccoon dog statues lined up on both sides. Each has a unique expression and posture, as if speaking to the visitors. These tanuki are made of Shigaraki ware and symbolize the temple’s history and legends.
Passing through the main gate (Black Gate) and continuing on, you come upon the temple gate (Red Gate), built in Genroku 7 (1694). Beyond this gate, in the temple grounds, stands a massive tanuki statue donated by Tobu Railway, its presence overwhelming.
The main hall, built in Ounin 2 (1468) and rebuilt during the Kyoho era (1716–36), is a historic building. Inside is the principal image of Shakyamuni Buddha, and in a room on the north side sits the legendary “Bunbuku Chagama” tea kettle in quiet repose. This kettle is said to never run out of hot water no matter how much is drawn, and is believed to have shared good fortune with many people.
Within the precincts is the Shukaku Hall, dedicated to the monk Shukaku, and countless tanuki figurines are placed around it. Shukaku is reputed to have brought the Bunbuku Chagama to Morinji, and legend has it that he was actually a long-lived tanuki in disguise.
In front of the main hall towers a giant yew plum pine tree, estimated to be around 600 years old. Its pointed leaves were planted for protection against evil, and it has grown alongside Morinji’s long history.
To the north of Morinji Temple lie Morinji Marsh and a lowland wetland, both designated as natural monuments of Gunma Prefecture. This wetland is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, preserving one of the Kanto region’s few precious natural environments.
Morinji Temple is a place where history, legend, and nature are harmoniously blended, leaving a deep impression on visitors. The smiling tanuki and the tranquil atmosphere of the grounds let you forget your everyday worries and bring calm to the heart.