🗺️ Shinshū Takada-ha Honsan Senshū-ji

Soshinji Temple, located in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, is the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Takada sect, founded by Shinran Shonin, the founder of Jodo Shinshu. It has a long history and is affectionately referred to by locals as "Takada Honsan." The expansive grounds are home to many national treasures and important cultural properties. Among them, the most spectacular are the national treasures, Goyodō and Nyorai-dō. Goyodō is a massive wooden structure rebuilt in 1666 and is one of the five national treasure-level wooden buildings in all of Japan. It houses a wooden statue of Shinran Shonin, and upon entering the hall, visitors are captivated by the gold brocade pillars, peony carvings, and the magnificent ceiling paintings. The grandeur combined with a solemn atmosphere purifies the hearts of those who visit. Nyorai-dō enshrines the principal image, a standing statue of Amida Nyorai. The decorations inside the hall are also worth seeing. The double-layered roof adds to the building's majesty, and the eaves are intricately carved with dragons and figures from ancient Chinese stories. The handcrafted decorations are detailed and exquisite, making them endlessly fascinating. Every year from January 9 to 16, during the "Go Shichiya Ho'on-kō" ceremony, bamboo lanterns illuminate the area, creating a more dreamlike atmosphere. Additionally, in the summer, the lotus flowers bloom in the grounds, offering breathtaking beauty. With its long history and vast grounds, every corner is filled with wonder and emotion, making it a worthwhile destination to visit when in Tsu City.

The temple, which is home to nationally designated cultural properties and numerous important cultural assets, features buildings with exquisite and ornate architectural details that are worth admiring. During the summer, over 35 varieties of lotus flowers bloom in more than a hundred pots within the grounds, creating a breathtaking sight. From January 9 to 16 each year, bamboo lanterns are lit within the temple, creating a dreamy atmosphere.