Fudo

This temple is near Fudo-mae station (one stop from Meguro on the Tokyu line) The temple was established for the protection of Edo Castle, then the centre of feudal government and business in Japan. The temple pays tribute to the wrathful Buddhist deity, Fudo, adopted from Hinduism. A major Buddhist priest, Ennin, made a carving of Fudo (now preserved here) after seeing him in a dream that he had in Meguro.

There is a festival around the temple on the 28th of every month in honour of Fudo and this is the best time to visit. Stalls are set up selling everything from Buddhist artifacts to local food and drink, as well as providing amusements similar to those found in Western fairgrounds: there’s a shooting range, lucky dip, a goldfish stall, among others.

Throughout the day and early evening, there are fire rituals, where talismans consecrated by holy smoke are offered for protection against various ills. The early evening when the sun goes down and the light is provided by the lanterns is particularly recommended and gives you the feeling that you have stepped back in time.

The temple itself is one of the five great Fudo temples in Tokyo. Climb up the steep stone steps and you’re rewarded with a great view of the large temple roof and altar. After visiting the altar, follow the wooden steps around to the back of the temple to see the huge Buddhist statue, Dainichi Norai.