🗺️ Taireizan Gokokuin Tōsenji (Meguro Fudōson)

The Takisenji Temple, famous for its "Meguro Fudo," was established in the 3rd year of Daido (808) and boasts a long history of over 1200 years. The "Dokko Waterfall" seen in the temple today is said to be the spring water that gushed forth when Master Jikaku decided to build the main hall and threw his ritual tool. The main hall was burned down in the 20th year of Keicho (1615) and was rebuilt with the support of Tokugawa Iemitsu in the 11th year of Kan'ei (1634), resulting in a magnificent complex of up to 53 buildings. Later, the main hall was again burned down during World War II and was reconstructed in the 56th year of Showa (1981). Tokyo has the Five Colors of Fudo (Meguro, Mejiro, Akabane, Kōbai, and Aoi), which served as guardian deities for Edo Castle and the five streets extending from it during the Edo period. In front of the Nio Gate of Meguro Fudo, there is the Takimi Tea House. In addition to table and chair seating and terrace seating, there are also tatami mat seats where visitors can relax and enjoy matcha, pudding, roasted sweet potatoes, and other meals. The Takimi Tea House is open only on the 8th, 18th, and 28th of each month, as well as on weekends and national holidays. The 28th of each month is the special day for Fudo, and the area inside and in front of the gate is crowded with many stalls. If the timing is right, it’s worth visiting on this special day.

The giant Buddha statues on both sides of the Nio Gate are truly spectacular. Fudō Myōō's expression of anger is one of righteous fury, saving humanity. The torii gate at Meguro Fudō is a unique one, also known as the Sannō Torii. Offering water to Fudō Myōō in front of the独鈷瀑布 (Dokko Falls) is a way to pray for wishes. After visiting the main hall, enjoy famous dishes like roasted sweet potatoes at "Taki-mise Chaya."