Capturing the Reconstruction Journey of Sen'en-ji Temple Through Photography

A Glimpse into Sen'en-ji Temple's Reconstruction Journey

The Sen'en-ji Temple located in Watari town, Miyagi Prefecture, is a historic site established in 1606 (Keichō 11). This temple has endured the test of time, including major earthquakes such as the Miyagi Prefecture Offshore Earthquake and the Great East Japan Earthquake. The initiative to reconstruct the temple began in 2017 and is set to culminate in July 2025 with the opening ceremony of the new main hall.

A new book titled "Sen'en-ji 400 Year Saga, and Towards the Future" authored by Yumi Oka, aims to document this remarkable journey. Set to be released on November 2, 2025, the book encapsulates the history and traditions of the temple's reconstruction through rich photographs and compelling narratives. It showcases the artistry of traditional Japanese temple architecture and its cultural significance.

The book is divided into five chapters, tracing each stage of the reconstruction process:

1. The Old Main Hall: This chapter reflects on the heritage of the former main hall connected to Date Narimitsu, highlighting historical remnants revealed during its dismantling.

2. Dismantling of the Old Hall: Readers will witness the extraction of Buddhist statues and the removal of intricate carvings designed to preserve the temple's essence.

3. Building the New Main Hall: This section focuses on the construction phase, particularly the essential woodwork, columns, and roof. Guided by the aspirations of the temple's congregation, who wished to honor their ancestors and leave a legacy for future generations, about 4,000 craftsmen (2,000 of whom are carpenters) played crucial roles over a span of 16 months.

4. Traditional Carpentry Techniques: Detailed illustrations include the rendering of timber used without nails, showcasing traditional construction methods. The main architect, Fukuji Shimizu, known for his expertise, has overseen the project, ensuring the temple resonates with quality and artistry poised to last for 500 years.

5. Carpentry Techniques Overview: Here, readers will find the intricate schematics of the wooden joinery used in constructing the new main hall, along with explanations of the techniques employed.

Through these chapters, the book emphasizes the importance of preserving Japanese craftsmanship and the broader cultural heritage for a global audience by providing content in both Japanese and English.

Author Profile

Yumi Oka was born on February 14, 1953, in Kamaishi City, Iwate Prefecture. A graduate of Iwate University, her early years included time spent in Hong Kong at St. Judes Preparatory School during the British colonial rule. From 1988 to 1989, she promoted Japanese culture in Toronto, Canada. Since 2000, she has been involved in translations, including notable works such as John F. Kennedy: The Decisions of the White House (co-translated) and Time Traveler: The Physicist's Equation Discoverer’s Record. Currently, she serves as the abbot at Sen'en-ji Temple in Wakari Town, harmonizing the legacy of a small parish temple with her husband.

Publication Details

- Title: Sen'en-ji 400 Year Saga, and Towards the Future
- Release Date: November 2, 2025
- Price: 5,500 JPY (Tax Included)
- Format: A4 size, 48 pages
- Publisher: Sekai Bunka Publishing, Co., Ltd.
- Links: Sekai Bunka, Amazon

This remarkable record offers a unique perspective on the journey of rebuilding a culturally significant temple while honoring traditional Japanese craftsmanship and passing it down to future generations.