No coin offerings are received in Hozenji, just the watering of Fudo

No coin offerings are received in Hozenji, just the watering of Fudo (Photo: Erika Arceo)

The Historical Hozenji Temple

Unique temple with lovely moss-covered Buddhist figure

Erika Arceo May 16, 2016 - 1 min read

No coin offerings are received in Hozenji, just the watering of Fudo

Where people refill water and write their wishes

A man prays and waters the image of Fudo

A man makes sure his splashing of water reaches the head of Fudo

Several sticks of burning incense

Moss-covered body image of Fudo

Lanterns hanging on the temple

Image of Fudo against a harsh light

Visitors write wishes on a piece of wood and hang them along walls of the temple

Some wishes are written and knotted on paper

Chochin: A traditional Japanese paper lantern still commonly used today

The statue of Mizukake Fudo has remained intact even after a fire razed this Osaka temple during WWII. With an all-seeing third eye on his forehead, Fudo’s image seeks to frighten people so that they will believe and follow the teachings of Dainichi Buddha. He carries a devil-subduing sword in his right hand and a rope for binding up demons in his left hand. All of which are now covered with moss.

It is believed that there was a woman who prayed and poured water over Fudo which caused the forming of moss over this image. This practice is carried on even today as a form of worship.

More info

Find out more about Hozenji Temple.

Erika Arceo

Erika Arceo @erika.arceo

A graphic designer based in the Philippines, a photo enthusiast, art appreciator, and beginner traveler