Tanjoji temple 日蓮宗大本山 小湊山 誕生寺.

Birthplace of Buddhist iconoclast Nichiren

Whether you're a Buddhist or not, this temple is worth a visit for its beauty, history, and legend. The temple's structures date from the Edo period, but the history goes back to its founding in 1276 to commemorate the birthplace of Nichiren, the unconventional Buddhist philosopher. Legend has it that his birth was marked by three miracles - lotuses blooming at the shore of the bay, a well gushing with spring water, and auspicious tai, red snapper, catches. The temple boasts the largest Niomon gate in the prefecture, huge onigawara gable tiles, and some carvings by local master Nami no Ihachi. I slipped out of my shoes and knelt on the tatami mats in front of the altar to say thanks. Then I wandered over to the hillside where I spied a gorgeous transom carved with fish and waves by Nami no Ihachi. The Niomon gate is lit in the evenings. It's a peaceful, elegant place to reflect on the diversity of Japan's Buddhist schools.