Category:

Municipally Designated Tangible Folk Cultural Property

Title:

Nakago yakushido no genrokujusannen mujikikuyoto

The Fasting Memorial Tower of Nakago Yakushido Temple

中郷薬師堂の元禄十三年無食供養塔

No. of features:

1 structure

Designated:

March 27, 2013

Location:

1-34-5 Nishi-Omiya, Nishi Ward

Owner:

The religious juridical person of Fukushoji Temple

Description:

Located in the Nakago Yakushido Temple of Nishi Ward’s Sashiogi neighborhood, this stone stele consists of a pillar and pedestal. The pillar stands 120 centimeters tall, 48 centimeters wide, and 23.5 centimeters thick. The pedestal measures 32 x 54 x 53 centimeters.

The pillar is embossed with an image that is believed to represent the Dainichi Buddha (Mahāvairocana) in the Diamond Realm and is dated from the year 1700.

This stele provides evidence that the folk belief known as “mujiki kuyo” (literally “non-eating memorial service”) was adopted around Nishi Ward’s Sashiogi region during the mid-Edo period. It also conveys the activity of Juuyo Zeshin, an ascetic who worked closely with the community.

Associated Texts:

Omiya’s Local History. Vol. 4, Omiya Local History Research Association

The Nishi Ward Cultural Properties Guidemap

vol. 12,  Survey Report on the Cultural Properties of Saitama City.

When visiting, please be mindful of your actions and avoid disturbing the owners of the cultural property, local residents, and other visitors.

Inquiries (Japanese only)

Cultural Heritage Preservation Division, Department of Lifelong Learning, Board of Education Secretariat　

TEL: 048-829-1723 FAX: 048-829-1989

https://www.city.saitama.jp/004/005/006/001/019/003/003/p022743.html