Learn About Byodoji
How to Use This Guide
Start with the overall picture, then move into history, faith, and story in the order that feels right.
There is no single correct entrance into Byodoji. You can begin with the temple's history, with devotion to its principal Buddha Yakushi Nyorai, or with the story of the hakoguruma preserved here.
If you are here with prayers in mind—for recovery from illness, or memorial rites for a child—the pages for our principal image Yakushi Nyorai and for Jizō Bodhisattva lead you to the monthly goma services and how to apply.
This page keeps the pathways simple and readable, so you can move through the temple's background without distraction.
Main Reading Paths
The central readings for coming to know Byodoji.
History of Byodoji Temple
Trace how devotion to Yakushi Nyorai has been handed down through the history of Byodoji.
ReadPrincipal Yakushi Nyorai
Follow the origins, vows, and living devotion surrounding the temple's principal Buddha.
ReadThe Eleven-Faced Kannon of the Jibutsudo
Follow the Eleven-Faced Kannon of the jibutsudo, and Byodoji's two titles, Iō-in and Nikkoin.
ReadA Hakoguruma for a Parent and Child
Read how the healing power of Yakushi Nyorai was remembered in modern times through the story of a hakoguruma.
ReadVaiśravaṇa at Byodoji
Follow the Bishamonten homa offered on the 1st of each month and the prayer for fortune and victory.
ReadKṣitigarbha at Byodoji
Follow the Jizo homa offered on the 24th of each month and the prayer for children and the departed.
ReadAcala at Byodoji
Follow Byodoji's Fudo devotion and the Fudo homa offered on the 28th of each month.
Read
Read from the Source
A modern-language guide to the temple's traditional origin record.