How to Use for Genealogy Research
Japanese Buddhist temples maintained “kakochō” (death registers) under the Edo-period terauke (danka) system, recording births, deaths, and marriages for each affiliated household. Kakochō are the most important genealogical sources predating the koseki system, often containing ancestor information from the mid-Edo period (17th–19th centuries).
Key genealogy uses:
- Identify the sect and location of the danna-dera (family temple) to which ancestors were affiliated
- Request access to or copies of the kakochō (at the temple’s discretion)
- Estimate an ancestor’s era and status from their kaimyō (posthumous Buddhist name)
Structure of a typical kaimyō (posthumous name):
- In-gō (〜院): Prestigious title given to high-status individuals
- Dōgō (2 characters): Reflects relationship with the teacher/sect
- Kaimyō proper (2 characters): Core posthumous name
- I-gō (〜koji/daishi/shinji/shinnyo, etc.): Indicates gender and social status
Sect Overview
Ōbaku Shū was founded in the early Edo period by the Chinese Zen master Ingen Ryūki. The head temple is Manpukuji in Uji, Kyoto. Approximately 450 temples nationwide; one of Japan’s three major Zen sects. Distinguished by its Chinese-influenced architecture and chanting style.
Kaimyō Features
Similar in structure to Rinzai kaimyō but may include Chinese-influenced elements. Format: (In-gō) + Dōgō + Kaimyō + I-gō.
Head Temple Location
34 Gokashō Sanbanguri, Uji, Kyoto
