"Wearing Maid Uniforms for Consultations"... Japan's Famous Temple Employs 'Temple Maids'

Controversy Over Japanese Ryukwanji Temple Employee Ikeguchi Shuji
Forms Girl Group Performing in Buddhist Attire
Women Also Counsel Worshippers Wearing Maid Uniforms

A famous temple in Japan has sparked controversy by forming a girl group and hiring 'Temple Maids' dressed in maid outfits to attract worshippers. On the 4th, Hong Kong's South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported, "Ryuganji Temple's 24th head priest, Ikeguchi Ryupo (44), located in eastern Kyoto, introduced changes as the number of traditional worshippers declined." Head priest Ikeguchi operates social media accounts to communicate with the younger generation, posting content such as 'Monks' OOTD (Outfit of the Day)' and 'Spicy Ramen Challenge' on YouTube and X (formerly Twitter).

Image source=Captured by Ryu Ganji employee X

Previously, in 2018, Head Priest Ikeguchi attracted attention by unveiling the 'Buddha Drone,' which carried a Buddha statue illuminated by LED lights and performed aerial displays. This work quickly gained popularity as a well-utilized example of modern technology and became a distinctive feature of Ryuganji Temple.

Up to this point, the introduction of youthful sensibilities was seen positively, but subsequent actions have sparked heated debates among netizens. First, there is the formation of the girl group. Ikeguchi created the world's first Buddhist female pop group, 'Tera*Palms,' aiming to promote Buddhist culture through music. The group consists of five female members, each representing bodhisattvas such as Daesejibo, Munsubosal, Gwaneumbosal, Bohyeonbosal, and Mireukbosal. They perform wearing outfits incorporating Buddhist elements. However, netizens who watched their performances pointed out, "There is no precedent for 'Bodhisattvas' (girl group members) energetically singing in front of Buddha statues while worshippers cheer."

Ryuganji Temple's Buddhist group Terra*Farms and Chief Priest Ikeguchi. [Image source=Ryuganji Temple X capture]

The biggest controversy arose from the 'Temple Maids.' Inspired by Japan's popular maid cafes, the 'Temple Maids' were introduced. These women wear maid outfits adorned with Buddhist decorations and engage in activities such as drinking tea and discussing religion with visitors. Head Priest Ikeguchi introduced the 'Temple Maids' based on the similarity in pronunciation between 'Meido,' the Buddhist term for the underworld, and the English word 'maid,' but the backlash has been significant.

[Image source=Captured by Ryu Ganji employee X]

Japanese netizens criticized, "Why are there only maids and no male attendants? Does this temple not need female worshippers?" "Maids could distract visitors," and "Their presence trivializes the sacred essence of Buddhism." On the other hand, some defended Ikeguchi, saying, "If the design can well integrate Buddhist elements and cultural concepts, it is a good approach," and "The head priest is truly a genius with innovative ideas."