About
Stepping away from the bustle of Tokyo, Tamon-ji Temple stands quietly at the northern edge of Sumida Ward, as if silently watching over the passage of time. This temple was founded during the Tentoku era (957–960) and was originally located near Sumida River Shrine, known then as Daikyōzan Myōō-in Sumida-dera. Later, during the Tenshō era (1573–1591), it was relocated to its current site and renamed Sumidayama Kisshō-in Tamon-ji. The principal image is Bishamonten, and the temple is also known as one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Sumida River. (visit-sumida.jp)
The temple gate of Tamon-ji is a thatched four-legged gate rebuilt in the mid-Edo period, and it is designated as a cultural property of the ward as the oldest building in Sumida Ward. Passing through this gate, visitors are greeted by the seated statues of the Six Jizō and the Tanuki Mound within the temple grounds. (visit-sumida.jp)
The Tanuki Mound preserves the legend of a supernatural tanuki that once settled in this area and deceived the people. When the villagers, together with the head priest, tried to drive away the creature by building a hall, the supernatural tanuki was vanquished with the protection of Bishamonten, and the mound was built to memorialize it. Because of this legend, Tamon-ji is also called “Tanuki Temple.” (visit-sumida.jp)
In addition, Tamon-ji escaped damage from the Great Kanto Earthquake and wartime destruction, making it one of the few temples that retains a strong sense of its former appearance. During the New Year, many worshippers visit as part of the Sumida River Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage, and the temple grounds become lively. Furthermore, with the Tanuki Mound, monuments to film figures, and many other cultural assets, it is a place where history and culture are alive. (visit-sumida.jp)
Walking through the grounds of Tamon-ji, the weight of history and tranquility calm the heart, allowing one to forget the noise of the city. Here, past and present gently intersect, offering deep peace to all who visit.