Todoroki Fudōson Temple: A Serene Escape in Tokyo

Todoroki Fudōson Temple, officially named Ryugozan Myooin, is a Buddhist temple affiliated with the Chizan School of Shingon Buddhism. Enshrining the Wisdom King Fudo (Acala), the temple's origins trace back to the late Heian period (circa 1100), with its establishment linked to the monk Kakuban. Legend says that Kogyo Daishi, a monk of the Shingon sect, had a dream revelation from Fudo-sama, guiding him to the Kanto region and to this valley. The temple grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere, with seasonal flowers adding to the scenery. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. The temple gate, relocated from the former Manganji Temple, adds to the historical ambiance. A short walk from the temple is the Fudo-no-Taki Waterfall, a sacred site where devotees have practiced ablutions and purification for centuries. The name 'Todoroki' is said to derive from the reverberating sound ('todoroku') of the waterfall. Visitors can explore the Japanese garden and shoin-style drawing room building near the temple. The garden features a pond, flowing water, and stone-paved paths. The temple is the 17th temple of the Thirty-six Fudo Temples of the Kanto region and is known to locals as “Todoroki's Fudo-sama”. Today, the temple and surrounding valley provide a sanctuary for wild animals, birds, and vegetation, making it hard to believe such a place exists within the metropolis.