Yokohama Nishi Ward

Description

Strolling through Nishi-ward: Memorial Monument at Kujoji Temple



The 7th generation of Hiranuma family Kyubei Hiranuma was famous for his effort to landfill Hiranuma area. He heartily worshiped Kishimojin (the goddess of childbirth and children) and he built a hall next to Suitengu. In order to further develop the hall, he invited Senrin Ono, a scholar of the Chinese classics. The priest then inherited the will of priest Nikkan of Chiba Nakayama Hokekyo-ji Temple and transferred monks to Hiranuma, naming Hiranumayamakujo Temple. That’s why he’s called restorer of the temple.



A magnificent 4.8 meters height stone tower in front of the gate is a memorial monument to console spirits of executed criminals. It used to be located at Kurayami-zaka slope in Nishi-tobe in the past but it was transferred to this place in 1894 (Meiji 27). On the front face of the monument, Higedaimoku, which is unique writing of Nichiren sect is engraved. On the side surface requiem poem is engraved. Standing next to the monument, it makes me feel somehow sad and dreadful.





Writing and picture by Tai Hasewaga (Nishi ward Cultural Association/Chairman of Kiko Society)



※This is a sketch and writing published in Yokohama Public Relation Nishi ward edition between November 1997 and April 2004. Please be noted that there’s a possibility that information in the article may be changed.



(Published March in 2002)