April 14, 2007
Shorinji Kempo Birthplace Monument Established

"Shorinji Kempo Birthplace Monument" was established in front of the JR Tadotsu Station, in the town of Tadotsu, Kagawa Prefecture, where the headquarters of the Shorinji Kempo organizations are located.

The monument was to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Shorinji Kempo since it was founded in this town by Doshin So.

The main pole of the 4 meter-high monument shows the mark of Shorinji Kempo and the statement of "Birthplace of Shorinji Kempo". The discs on the top represent built up efforts for the sake of the society with courage and dreams. The large crescent arch is stretching into the future and the outer space for eternity, representing a meeting of ourselves and others. On this arch is written the founder's philosophy "Half for our own happiness and half for the happiness of others."

The base shows the theme of the Shorinji Kempo 60th anniversary; "Thankful for my own life, Thankful for having you in it"

On Sunday, April 14, 2007, the unveiling ceremony of the monument was held at the JR Tadotsu Station, attended by Mr. Toshiyuki Umehara, President of the Kagawa Tourist Association and also President of JR Shikoku, Mr. Hiroshi Oguni, Tadotsu Town Mayer, Mr. Masaru Kambara, Tadotsu Tourist Association, Ms. Yuuki So, Chairperson of the Shorinji Kempo Group, among many other guests.

At the end of the ceremony, Mr. Yoshitaka Suzuki, Representative of Kongo Zen Sohonzan Shorinji, gave an address of thanks; "Making this establishment an opportunity, we will contribute to the development of the town of Tadotsu. Shorinji Kempo has completed 'kanreki (traditional sexagenary cycle)'. We will make a fresh start like a new-born baby."

Reported by Kongo Zen Sohonzan Shorinji

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