Honnoji

Introduction to Honnoji temple

Honnoji Temple was founded in 1415. It is the head temple of the Hokke Honmon school of Buddhism.

In 1582, Oda Nobunaga was killed by his subordinate Akechi Mitsuhide at this temple. This incident is one of the most famous events in Japanese history. The grave of Oda Nobunaga is located within the temple grounds.

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Honnoji temple (Kyoto) Most powerful warlord rests Honnoji Temple is the head temple of the Hokke Honmon school of Buddhism. This is the temple where Oda Nobunaga was betrayed and killed by his subordinate Akechi Mitsuhide. He was one of Japan’s most famous warlord and was on the verge of unifying the country.

Morning service

Morning services are held at Honnoji Temple every day, and anyone is welcome to attend.

When I arrived at the temple around 5:50, while it was still dark, the monks were preparing for the service in the main hall. As I sat in a chair and waited, at 6 o’clock a large drum was beaten and five monks began chanting sutras.

After listening to the sutras for a while, a monk approached me and guided me into the inner sanctuary, which is normally off-limits to the public. I went up to the statue of Nichiren, the principal image of the temple, and offered incense.

When I returned to my seat, the two monks began beating the large drums. The sound of the drums was very powerful and electrifying.

The services ended around 6:35.

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