Tokeiji, a Rinzai-sect temple of Zen Buddhism, is a branch temple of nearby Engakuji, which is a short 5-minute walk away. This important temple/nunnery was founded in 1285 by the wife of regent Hojo Tokimune as a sanctuary for women who were abused by their husbands. In a time when women could not legally divorce, Tokeiji offered them a three-year training program in return for an official divorce.
The temple’s right to issue divorces was revoked in the early 1870s and its time as a nunnery ended in 1902. Up until 1902, men were strictly forbidden from entering the premises.
Today, all visitors are welcome, and the temple is known for its beautiful flower gardens from summertime hydrangeas to wintertime plum blossoms.
The relatively small complex features multiple structures, including an entrance gate, a bell tower, tea houses, a treasure house, and a main hall. The treasure house holds Buddhist artifacts, as well as lacquer work from past nuns; and the main hall enshrines a seated statue of Shaka Nyorai, the principal image of the temple.
Join the temple for early morning zazen meditation, which is held every Sunday.
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