Bansho-ji Temple, Nagoya
Bansho-ji Temple is a historical site with deep roots in Japan's feudal era. Established in 1540 by Lord Oda Nobuhide, father of the famed warlord Oda Nobunaga, this S艒t艒 Buddhist temple was initially built in the then village of Nagoya. The temple's founding priest, Daiun, was invited by Nobuhide to lead the spiritual activities. The temple later became notable as the temporary residence of the renowned samurai Kato Kiyomasa during the construction of Nagoya Castle. In 1610, Bansho-ji was relocated to its current site to accommodate the urban development surrounding the newly built castle.
The temple's entrance is marked by a stone gate, flanked by statues of kitsune, or fox spirits, which are traditionally considered messengers of the deity Inari. This serene approach is illuminated by numerous paper lanterns, enhancing the temple's tranquil atmosphere. Bansho-ji was initially founded to pray for the repose of Oda Nobuhide's soul. Over time, it has become a cultural treasure, preserving the history and legacy of the Oda family, particularly Oda Nobunaga, who played a pivotal role in unifying Japan during the late Sengoku period.
One of the unique features of Bansho-ji Temple is its display of karakuri mechanical dolls, which are a significant cultural artifact. These dolls depict important moments from Oda Nobunaga's life. One doll reenacts the poignant scene of Nobunaga throwing incense at his father's funeral, symbolizing his deep respect and filial piety. Another doll portrays Nobunaga performing the traditional dance "Kouwakamai" before the decisive Battle of Okehazama, where he achieved a historic victory. These mechanical figures not only serve as a tribute to Nobunaga's legacy but also provide visitors with a glimpse into the cultural practices of the time.
The temple's entrance is marked by a stone gate, flanked by statues of kitsune, or fox spirits, which are traditionally considered messengers of the deity Inari. This serene approach is illuminated by numerous paper lanterns, enhancing the temple's tranquil atmosphere. Bansho-ji was initially founded to pray for the repose of Oda Nobuhide's soul. Over time, it has become a cultural treasure, preserving the history and legacy of the Oda family, particularly Oda Nobunaga, who played a pivotal role in unifying Japan during the late Sengoku period.
One of the unique features of Bansho-ji Temple is its display of karakuri mechanical dolls, which are a significant cultural artifact. These dolls depict important moments from Oda Nobunaga's life. One doll reenacts the poignant scene of Nobunaga throwing incense at his father's funeral, symbolizing his deep respect and filial piety. Another doll portrays Nobunaga performing the traditional dance "Kouwakamai" before the decisive Battle of Okehazama, where he achieved a historic victory. These mechanical figures not only serve as a tribute to Nobunaga's legacy but also provide visitors with a glimpse into the cultural practices of the time.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Nagoya. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Bansho-ji Temple on Map
Sight Name: Bansho-ji Temple
Sight Location: Nagoya, Japan (See walking tours in Nagoya)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Nagoya, Japan (See walking tours in Nagoya)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Nagoya, Japan
Create Your Own Walk in Nagoya
Creating your own self-guided walk in Nagoya is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Nagoya Castle Walking Tour
Nagoya Castle, constructed in 1612, is the former center of one of Japan's most important junctions linking two of the country's five major highways. The castle became a core part of modern Nagoya in 1930. Partially destroyed during World War II 鈥� in 1945, it has been under reconstruction since 1957.
The castle complex is characterized by multiple defensive layers divided by the... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
The castle complex is characterized by multiple defensive layers divided by the... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
Nagoya City Center Walking Tour
Nagoya, Japan鈥檚 fourth-largest city, is the industrial and cultural epicenter of the Ch奴bu region. Situated on the Pacific coast of central Honshu island, Nagoya has woven a rich historical tapestry reflecting its role in Japan's feudal and modern eras. The name "Nagoya" is derived from the word "Nagoyaka," which means peace or tranquility.
The city's historical... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
The city's historical... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
Fushimi - Sakae Pub Crawl of Nagoya
This crawl runs through Fushimi and Sakae, the down town area of Nagoya. It is a real mixed bag and every establishment has a different vibe and (more importantly) menu. All of the bars are gaijin friendly and each would be a decent place to have a...
Nagoya Station Pub Crawl
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