Masobyo Temple in Yokohama's Chinatown
Elizabeth SMasobyo Temple in Yokohama's Chinatown honors Mazu, a Chinese Taoist goddess. Visitors are welcome to pay respects and receive..
Masobyo
Masobyo Temple (媽祖廟), also called Ma Zhu Miao, is located in Yokohama’s Chinatown. The young Taoist temple, which opened relatively recently in 2006, enshrines Mazu, the Chinese Goddess of the Sea. Despite its young age, the temple exudes ancient spirituality older than its years. The structure has a geometrical base and is decorated with blue, green, red, and gold detailing. A massive gate welcomes visitors and worshippers alike and is connected to the main temple with a line of red lanterns. Inside Masobyo, a statue of Mazu is cloaked in vibrant attire and wearing an imperial headdress, symbolizing her godly status. The interior is equally as impressive as the outside with exquisite designs covering every surface. Worshippers commonly go to the temple to pray for safe travels since, historically, sailors and fishermen would pray to the goddess for calm seas during their journeys.
History of Mazu: Goddess of the Sea
As a human, Mazu was born in the tenth century and named Lin Mo. According to legend, she was gifted with supernatural abilities, such as predicting the weather, calming storms, and experiencing visions. She dedicated her life to the teachings of Tao and ascended to the heavens at age 28 as a goddess.
Mazu has two demon bodyguards, Qianliyan and Shunfenger. Both demons vowed to protect Mazu after failing to defeat her in combat for her hand in marriage. Inside Masobyo, statues of the demon guardians stand to the left and right of Mazu. One, colored red, is positioned in a listening pose with his hand to his ear, while the green colored one is diligently watching, with eyes that seem to scan the temple.
Today
Worshippers visit Masobyo to pray to Mazu for safe travels, as well as general health and safety. The temple is also a popular spot for tourists due to its traditional architecture and cultural significance in Chinatown. Of course, Mazu’s affinity for keeping travellers safe is appealing to tourists as well. Masobyo’s temple staff are extremely helpful and more than willing to teach visitors the appropriate methods of worship. Individuals who want a closer look at Mazu’s statue are required to buy incense sticks, which they place in five burners. After lighting the incense sticks, they should bow in respect. During New Years, the temple becomes crowded with people participating and watching the festive displays.
Overview
Address
136 Yamashitacho, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0023, Japan (Map) (Directions)Located in
Yokohama ChinatownHours
9:00 - 19:00 Closed nowOpening Hours
Monday
9:00 - 19:00
Tuesday
9:00 - 19:00
Wednesday
9:00 - 19:00
Thursday
9:00 - 19:00
Friday
9:00 - 19:00
Saturday
9:00 - 19:00
Sunday
9:00 - 19:00
Holidays
9:00 - 19:00
Price
Free
Phone Number
+81 45-681-0909Website
Access
Ten minute walk from Ishikawa-cho Station (JR Negishi Line), or 3 minute walk from Motomachi Chukagai Station.
Related Articles
5 articles
Culture
Masobyo Mausoleum, Yokohama
Tomoko KamishimaMasobyo Mausoleum (Mazu Miao Temple) is a new Taoist temple in Yokohama Chinatown established in 2006
16
Details of Masobyo in Chinatown 1
Larry KnipfingMasobyo in Yokohama Chinatown: Carvings of 12 animals from the Chinese Zodiac: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, ..
12
Details of Masobyo in Chinatown 2
Larry KnipfingMasobyo Temple, Yokohama Chinatown, is full of surprises. Particularly impressive are gorgeous wall plate carvings that adorn the..
Activities
Mazu Miao Temple, Yokohama
Shinya OtaMa Zhu Miao Temple is a place where you can feel the Chinese culture and tradition nurtured by this Chinese community. This is..
Reviews
Help rate this location
Your experience helps others planning their trip
Masobyo
Near Masobyo
Luxury
Yokohama's Hotel New Grand
The elegant building facing Yamashita Park, is one of the oldest hotels in Yokohama: the Hotel New Grand.
Western
Hotel MyStays Yokohama Kannai
To properly see Yokohama, you need a good quality hotel with a central location. Hotel MyStays Yokohama Kannai is my first choice...
9
Western
Hotel Navios Yokohama
Navios Yokohama is a reasonably priced hotel in an excellent location in the Aka-Renga Shoping District. The view from the guest..
Food
Masago Saryo
Perfect for couples or groups (up to 12 people), Masago provides enticing kaiseki dining that is delicious and artistic. Try their classic Japanese-style..
Food
RUCY+R (previously named Peace Cafe)
RUCY+R boasts a delicious and colorful vegan menu. You won't be disappointed by the Hawaiian-inspired cafe where you can try Mexican taco salad, tofu-katsu,..
Food
MS. CASABLANCA
Enjoy high-quality authentic Chinese food such as dim sum, congee, and noodles at MS. CASABLANCA. This casual Chinese dining space is chic and comfortable,..
Culture
Kanteibyo
Kanteibyo Temple (関帝廟) is a spiritual landmark in Yokohama’s Chinatown. It shines like a beacon of faith with its vibrant red exterior and intric..
Culture
Yamashita Park
Yamashita Park (山下公園) is a public park along YokoThe Yamashita Park is considered the first coastal park in Japan and is located directly in fro..
Culture
Yokohama Park
Yokohama Park is the second oldest park in Yokohama after Yamate Park and was opened to the public in 1897. With the construction of Yokohama Stadium,..