Honen is known as the founder of the Jodo sect of Buddhism and spread the teachings of the Pure Nembutsu throughout Japan. The site of Honen-in Temple is where Honen spent his last days and was built as a temple to remember and honor his virtues.


A disciple of Honen Shonin, Shoichi Kokushi (Koen Enni) inherited the teachings of his teacher and worked hard to spread the doctrine of the Jodo sect. It is said that after the death of Honen Shonin, Shoichi Kokushi built Honen-in Temple to honor his teacher's virtues and enshrine his remains here. Therefore, Honen-in Temple is not only a place to remember Honen, but also a place that embodies the deep bond between his disciple and teacher and the spirit of passing on his teachings.


The precincts of Honen-in allow you to enjoy the beauty of each season. The autumn foliage is especially spectacular, and many tourists visit. The temple grounds are dotted with wooden statues of Honen Shonin and monuments carved with his teachings, allowing visitors to experience the history and teachings in silence.


Honen-in is a temple that has a deep connection with Honen, the founder of the Jodo sect, and his disciples, who are his successors. Its historical background and beautiful precincts are worth a visit.