Renkeiji Temple: A Sanctuary in Kawagoe's 'Little Edo'
Discover Renkeiji Temple in Kawagoe: A historical Buddhist sanctuary with healing traditions and vibrant monthly festivals in Little Edo.
Renkeiji Temple, nestled in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, is a Jōdo-shū Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back to 1549. Founded by Renkei, the mother of Daidoji Masashige, a Kawagoe Castle Lord, the temple provided a sanctuary for the common people. During the Edo period, Renkeiji gained recognition as one of the Kantō Jūhachi Danrin, a nationally certified Buddhism University, attracting priests and novices to study Jōdo-shū. The temple is dedicated to Amida Buddha and is known for its various features and spiritual touchstones. A major attraction is the bright red Obinzuru-sama statue, believed to heal illnesses when touched. Touching the statue on the same spot as one's ailment is said to bring relief. The temple also enshrines Fukurokuju, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, associated with longevity, good fortune, and business prosperity. Renkeiji is the fifth stop on the tour of Seven Divinities of Good Luck temples. On the 8th of each month, Renkeiji hosts a temple fair with storytelling and other events, drawing large crowds. This monthly event, known as "Donryu Day," honors the temple-related Donryu Top Priest and features entertainment, flea markets, and local food stalls. The temple's bell, made in 1695, continues to ring daily at 3 p.m.
Local tips
- Visit on the 8th of the month for the lively 'Donryu Day' fair, featuring local food, storytelling, and flea market stalls.
- Touch the Obinzuru-sama statue in front of the prayer area, as it's believed to heal illnesses and injuries.
- Explore the temple grounds to find Fukurokuju, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, and receive blessings for longevity and good fortune.
- Combine your visit with a walk through Kawagoe's historic Kurazukuri Street, just a short distance from the temple.
- Check out the temple's website for information on events and prayer receptions.
A brief summary to Renkeiji Temple
- Renjakucho, ７−1, Kawagoe, Renjakucho, Saitama, 350-0066, JP
- +8149-222-0043
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
Renkeiji Temple is conveniently located within a 5-minute walk from Hon-Kawagoe Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line. From the station's main exit, walk straight towards the main street and turn left. Continue along the street, and the temple will be on your right. The walk is straightforward and well-signposted. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
From Kawagoe Station (JR Kawagoe Line or Tobu Tojo Line), take the Tobu bus and get off at 'Renkeiji-mae' bus stop, which is right in front of the temple. Alternatively, take the Co-Edo Loop Bus and get off at the Renkeiji Temple Kita stop. A single bus fare is approximately ¥200 for adults and ¥100 for children. A day pass for the Co-Edo Loop Bus costs ¥600 for adults (¥400 on the 8th, 18th, and 28th of each month).
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Taxi
A taxi from Kawagoe Station to Renkeiji Temple takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is ¥700-¥900. Taxis are readily available at the station's taxi stands.
