A History Beginning in the Kamakura Period
The origins of Saihoji are traditionally traced to 1227, when Utsunomiya Yoritsuna entered religious life under the name Jisshinbo Rensho and is said to have established an Amida-do hall.
In 1350, Kiryu Kunituna established Saihoji as a Pure Land Buddhist temple called Hoju-zan Saihoji. In 1392, during the time of the third-generation Kiryu lord, Toyotsuna, the temple converted to the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism.
The conversion to Zen is associated with the renowned monk Shun’ō Reizan, who was invited to the temple during this period. Saihoji subsequently developed as a full-fledged Zen temple.
Later, Banko Bonko, who served as the 97th abbot of Kenchoji Temple in Kamakura, became the temple’s first abbot in the new tradition. Through these connections, Saihoji came to hold an important position within the Zen Buddhist community.
The Temple of the Kiryu Clan
From the Nanboku-cho period through the end of the Warring States period, Saihoji served as the family temple of the Kiryu clan, who based their power in this region.
The cemetery of successive members of the Kiryu family lies quietly on the temple grounds. It contains one multi-tiered stone pagoda and thirteen Gorinto five-ring memorial stones, some of which are believed to date from the Nanboku-cho period.
These stone monuments provide valuable evidence of the medieval history of the region and offer visitors a tangible connection to the samurai culture of centuries ago.
The cemetery extends along the slope of a small hill, from where visitors can look across the town of Kiryu. On exceptionally clear days, Mt. Fuji is also said to be visible in the distance.
The combination of historical monuments and expansive scenery makes the cemetery an especially atmospheric place for reflecting on Kiryu’s past.
Rebuilt After Repeated Fires
Saihoji has experienced several major fires throughout its long history. The temple suffered devastating damage during fires in the Hoei era and again in 1823.
The fire of 1823 was particularly destructive. Most of the temple buildings and many historical records were reportedly lost, although the principal Buddhist image and some other statues survived.
Following these disasters, the temple was gradually rebuilt through the efforts of parishioners and members of the local community.
The main hall was reconstructed during the Taisho period, followed by the construction of the monks’ quarters and bell tower during the Showa period. The present main hall and stone thirteen-story pagoda were subsequently built, while the guest hall and monks’ quarters were completed during the Heisei period.
The temple’s repeated rebuilding is an important part of its history. Its survival through fire and other difficulties demonstrates the enduring support of the local community.
Important Cultural Property: Wooden Statue of Amida Nyorai
One of Saihoji’s most important treasures is the wooden statue of Amida Nyorai enshrined in the main hall. Believed to date from the late Kamakura period, the statue has been designated an Important Cultural Property by Gunma Prefecture.
The seated statue is approximately 59 centimeters tall and was constructed using the yosegi-zukuri technique, in which multiple pieces of wood are joined together to create a single sculpture.
Amida is depicted forming the raigo-in gesture associated with the welcoming of devotees to the Pure Land. The figure has a calm, refined expression that reflects the characteristic beauty of Kamakura-period Buddhist sculpture.
Gold pigment was applied to the face and body, while the robes feature intricate decorative patterns created using colored pigments and kirikane, a traditional technique involving finely cut pieces of gold leaf.
Crystal was used for the statue’s eyes, giving the figure an especially lifelike appearance.
A Record of Centuries of Devotion
An inscription inside the statue records that it underwent restoration and repainting in 1521. This provides valuable evidence that the image was carefully maintained and revered for centuries.
Although parts of the statue have been damaged or lost, these traces of age can also be seen as evidence of the many historical changes and disasters through which the statue has survived.
The realistic folds of the robes and refined facial features characteristic of Kamakura Buddhist sculpture make the statue a particularly valuable work of religious art.
The “Kiryu Tower” – A Monumental Stone Thirteen-Story Pagoda
One of the most striking features of the temple grounds is the enormous stone thirteen-story pagoda, commonly known as the “Kiryu Tower.”
Completed in 1992, the pagoda stands approximately 20 meters tall and is considered one of the tallest stone pagodas of its kind in Japan.
The four sides of its base are decorated with representations of the Four Buddhas of the four directions, giving the monument a solemn and impressive appearance.
Rising dramatically against the sky, the pagoda can be seen from a considerable distance and has also become a popular spot for photography.
Temple Treasures Preserving Medieval Memories
In addition to the wooden statue of Amida Nyorai, Saihoji preserves a variety of historic treasures.
Among them are memorial tablets belonging to seven generations of the Kiryu family and a traditional samurai stirrup associated with the Kiryu family. These objects provide a tangible connection to the warriors who lived and fought in the region during the medieval and early modern periods.
The history of the Kiryu clan itself remains an important subject of regional historical research. The clan was active in the area from the Nanboku-cho period through the Warring States period, and its relationships with other samurai families, including the Sano clan, as well as its activities during periods of conflict, have left behind numerous traditions and unanswered questions.
Saihoji serves as an important place for encountering this fascinating chapter of Kiryu’s history.
Seasonal Nature in the Temple Grounds
The temple grounds extend across a gentle south-facing hillside, creating a peaceful and sun-filled environment.
In spring, cherry blossoms and fresh green foliage add color to the grounds. In autumn, the surrounding trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold, creating beautiful scenery around the historic buildings and stone monuments.
The changing landscape makes Saihoji enjoyable throughout the year and adds a natural dimension to a visit focused on history and Buddhist culture.
A Historic Destination Where Nature and Faith Meet
Saihoji Temple is one of Kiryu’s places where history, culture, religion, and nature come together.
Visitors can quietly pay their respects in the main hall, explore the cemetery of the historic Kiryu clan, admire the surviving stone monuments, and take in the views across the city.
The atmosphere is particularly peaceful, offering a welcome contrast to the pace of everyday life.
With a history stretching back nearly 800 years, Baidenzan Saihoji continues to stand as a place connecting Kiryu’s medieval past with the present day. For travelers interested in Japanese history, Buddhist art, traditional architecture, or simply a quiet place to reflect, the temple offers a meaningful stop in Kiryu.