【Kyoto Temple Guide】Discover the Nichiren Sect: Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and Honno-ji Temple

Hello everyone! Welcome to your travel guide for exploring Kyoto’s dramatic samurai history and Buddhist traditions.

Founded in the 13th century by the passionate reformer Nichiren Shonin, the Nichiren Sect places its utmost devotion on the Lotus Sutra, considered by Nichiren to be the ultimate teaching of the Buddha.

Chanting the powerful phrase “Nam-myoho-renge-kyo” (Devotion to the Mystic Law of the Lotus Sutra), the Nichiren sect played a powerful role in medieval Kyoto society and is closely tied to some of Japan’s most dramatic historical events.

In this guide, we’ll explore the history of the Nichiren sect and visit its most famous temple in Kyoto!

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1. What is the Nichiren Sect?

Nichiren taught that in a turbulent age of spiritual decline, chanting the title of the Lotus Sutra was the direct and most effective path to enlightenment for all people.

Characterized by fervent devotion and strong convictions, the sect gained immense popularity among the influential merchant classes (Choshu) of Kyoto during the Muromachi period, leading to the construction of magnificent urban temple compounds.

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2. Key Nichiren Sect Temple in Kyoto

① Stage of the Honno-ji Incident: Honno-ji Temple

Located right in the heart of downtown Kyoto near the City Hall, Honno-ji is a historic head temple of the Nichiren sect, world-famous for its tragic connection to samurai warlord Oda Nobunaga.

• Highlights: Visit the memorial monument dedicated to Oda Nobunaga, who met his end here during the infamous Honno-ji Incident in 1582. The temple’s treasure hall displays fascinating artifacts and weapons from the Sengoku period.

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3. Travel Tips

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4. Summary

Discover the passionate history, powerful chants, and dramatic samurai connections of the Nichiren sect on your next trip to Kyoto!