6.1 Can I get a goshuin stamp at Higashi Honganji? (※Shinshu characteristics also explained)
Higashi Honganji is the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Otani sect, but the goshuin culture is actually considered incompatible with Jodo Shinshu doctrine.
🔸Why don’t Shinshu sects place importance on goshuin stamps?
In Jodo Shinshu, salvation through the Buddha is based on faith in the nembutsu (Namu Amida Butsu), and the goal is not to “accumulate merit” through worship. Therefore, there are few practices based on the idea that goshuin stamps are proof of having paid sutras.
For this reason, Higashi Honganji sect does not officially grant goshuin stamps.
6.2 How to Obtain a Goshuin and Important Points
🔸Exceptional Cases: Commemorative Stamps and Goei-fuda (Image Cards)
Currently, Higashi Honganji Temple sometimes distributes the following “visit souvenirs” and “goei-fuda” (image cards) instead of goshuin:
- A woodblock print of a portrait of Saint Shinran
- A commemorative stamp
- Visit commemorative cards for special memorial services
*However, inscribed goshuin (ink inscription + red seal) are not available.
🔸Important Points
・Unlike other temples, inscriptions in goshuin notebooks are not available, so be careful if visiting solely for the purpose of receiving a goshuin.
・Goshuin notebooks are sometimes distributed as souvenirs during official events, so it is best to time your visit around an event.
6.3 Goshuin Book Sales and Writers’ Services
Higashi Honganji Temple generally does not sell goshuin notebooks. However, some pilgrims use “Shinran Shonin Pilgrimage Books” or “Prayer Books,” available at bookstores and Buddhist altar shops, and collect stamps.
🔸Regarding the Inscription
・Inscriptions will not be provided by inscriptions (monks or staff)
・ Commemorative seals may be self-stamped or provided by staff
・We respect the significance of worship and encourage quiet worship.
✅ Summary of points
| item | Content |
| Awarding of red seal | ✕(Not supported) |
| Commemorative stamp | ○(Depending on time and location) |
| Distribution of Mikage-fuda | ○(If desired, at the time of memorial service) |
| Writer support | ✕(No ink inscription) |
| Goshuincho (stamp book) sales | ✕(Not officially sold) |