Daien-ji Temple: A Historical Sanctuary in Meguro

Daien-ji Temple, nestled in Meguro City, is a serene Buddhist temple that embodies traditional Japanese spirituality and architecture. Founded in the 17th century, Daien-ji has a rich history, intertwined with the development of Japanese Buddhism and the arts. The temple is known for being the origin point of the Great Meiwa Fire of 1772, a devastating blaze that destroyed a large portion of Edo (old Tokyo). To honor the victims, the temple commissioned 520 stone statues, each with a unique expression, representing the Gohyaku Rakan, or the 500 disciples of Buddha. These statues, along with a small pond, create a serene atmosphere. Daien-ji enshrines Daikokuten, the God of wealth, and features other notable statues such as Toroke Jizo, believed to melt away worries, and Mizuko Jizo, protectors of children. The temple also has a statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Healing, and Doso-shin, the Traveler's Guardian Deity. The three monkeys embodying 'Mizaru' (see not), 'Iwazaru' (say not), and 'Kikizaru' (hear not) can also be seen here. Daienji is a national historical site and a significant cultural property. It is one of Edo's three great Daikoku temples and a popular stop on the Yamate Seven Deities of Good Fortune pilgrimage.