The temple was founded by Nichiren's disciple, Nichijo, on the exact site of Nichiren's parental home.
The temple is associated with the 'Tanjoji Tai' (sea bream) legend, where the fish in the nearby bay are protected as sacred incarnations of Nichiren.
A massive tsunami in 1703 destroyed most of the original buildings, requiring extensive reconstruction at a slightly higher elevation.
The grounds contain a 13-meter tall bronze statue of Nichiren Shonin.
The temple maintains a 'Treasure Hall' (Homotsuden) that holds rare scrolls written in Nichiren's own hand.
Local folklore suggests that the 'Tanjoji sea bream' do not have the typical sharp spines of the species, believed to be a miracle of the temple.
The temple's Nio-mon gate is recognized as one of the few surviving wooden structures from the early Edo period in the region.
Tanjoji Temple is the birthplace of Nichiren, the 13th-century founder of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism. Established in 1276, the temple marks the site where Nichiren's mother reportedly saw a lotus flower bloom in the ocean upon his birth. The complex features the Nio-mon Gate, a designated Prefectural Cultural Property, which survived a major tsunami in 1703. The grounds house a large statue of Nichiren and several halls constructed in traditional Japanese architectural styles. Visitors can explore the Treasure House, which displays historical documents and artifacts associated with Nichiren’s life. The temple grounds overlook the Uchiura Bay, integrating coastal geography with religious structures. It serves as a significant pilgrimage site for followers of the Nichiren Shoshu and Nichiren Shu sects. The surrounding gardens include ancient trees, including a famous Japanese red pine. The architecture reflects various reconstruction periods following fires and natural disasters.
The elevated viewing platform near the Nichiren statue overlooking the Nio-mon gate and the ocean.
Walk down to the nearby coastline to observe the protected sea bream in the bay.
Check the treasure house schedule as it occasionally closes for private ceremonies.
Allocate time to walk the garden paths, which offer views of the Pacific Ocean.
Do not attempt to feed or catch the fish in the harbor, as they are considered sacred to the temple.
Remove shoes before entering temple halls, maintain silence, and refrain from photographing the interior of prayer halls.
