Original subtitles

THE MINAMOTO CLAN, AFTER HAVING BEEN PERSECUTED FOR Tl-THREE GENERATIONS...

DURING THE I-HOJO REGENCY, ESTABLISHED A POWERFUL MILITARY GOVERNMENT IN KAMAKURA

MOUNT KIYOSUMI, AWA PROVINCE

KIYOSUMI-DERA TEMPLE

Rencho is conducting an ascetic practice in the Sammai-do pavilion.

Why is he doing that?

He has just returned from Mount Hiei, where he was practicing asceticism.

Praying in the middle of the night'?

If Rencho is so attached to his parents...

why didn't he go back to Kominato?

Should vve interrupt his prayer?

No. He must be doing it for a reason.

Do not approach Sammai-do until Rencho finishes his prayer.

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5TH DAY OF PRAYER

7TH DAY OF PRAYER

From now on I shall be called Nichiren, and I shall become the Foundation of Japan!

I shall become the Essence of Japan!

I shall become the Arc of Japan!

Namu Myoho Range Kym!

IT HAPPENED 700 YEARS AGO APRIL 28, KENCHO 5 (1253)

NICHIREN WAS 32 YEARS OLD

NICHIREN

Produced by Masaichi Nagata

Based on the Book by Matsutaro Kawaguchi

Cinematography by Hiroshi Takemura Production Design by Koretaka Yoshino Yutaka Yokoyama

Music by Yasushi Akutagavva

Sound Effects by Toshio Tanaka Takashi Matsumoto

Light Effects by Hiroshi ljima Film Editing by Satori lkeda

Starring Kinnosuke Yorozuya

Written and Directed by Noboru Nakamura

A man from the commissioner's headquarters, Mr Kagenobu Tojo...

vvill be present at your service on Mount Hiei.

The main hall of the temple is full of devotees.

I specifically mentioned this.

I'm happy to hear that.

Shigetada, it's you!

I got your message. Thank you.

Do come in.

Father, vve haven't seen each other in ages.

Hovv you've changed!

It must have been 15 years or so...

When he left us, he was 17.

How's mother doing'?

She wants to see you as soon as possible.

She's in our house in Kominato.

When you finish praying, go see her immediately

Mr Tojo is here.

Shigetada, I'm glad you've been able to see hovv your son has matured.

I am very glad to see all of you here today

And I am very grateful to you.

This year, vve commemorate 2,200 years since the day Shakyamuni passed away

During his life, Shakyamuni said...

that 2 thousand years after his death vvill begin the Age of Degeneration.

He prophesied that there vvill be strife...

and people following the true path vvill be few.

It was a wise prophecy

Indeed, this is the age that has come.

Countries are at war with one another, people have turned into thugs.

This age of sorrow has come to every remote corner of the earth.

This is truly the Age of Degeneration.

If one looks at the outer side of things, one sees beautiful temples being built.

Both the Emperor and Regent are Buddhists.

But it is not enough to bring people peace.

For this interpretation of Buddha's way is false.

It casts a shadow over Shakyamuni's teaching.

Hold on! Who did you say is distorting Buddha's teaching?

Are you calling Nembutsu and Zen false teachings?

Exactly

The only true prayer granted to us by Shakyamuni...

is Namu Myoho Renge Kyo.

The Lotus Sutra is the heart of Buddha's teaching.

Enough!

You're praising your ovvn teaching and calling other sects heretic.

I vvill knock this Rencho off the pulpit!

Appease your rage and read the Lotus Sutra.

If you do not accept the Lotus Sutra and Shakyamunts true teaching...

the whole country vvill plunge into chaos, and you too, Tojo.

Shut up!

I vvill not keep quiet!

If I fall silent, so vvill Buddha!

Hovv dare you'?

Please, forgive him!

Your rage is understandable, since you practice Nembutsu.

Forget what you heard here today

If this monk stays alive, the world vvill collapse.

It's my duty to out his head off!

Death to Rencho!

Wait! Stop!

No violence in the temple!

From now on, Rencho is banned from this monastery!

Trust me!

I was your teacher, and you betrayed me!

I will punish you myself. Leave!

Death to Rencho, the Lotus Sutra devotee!

Lousy preacher! Come out!

Kissho! Joken!

Take Rencho out the back gate and protect him.

I've been waiting for you to return for many years.

I hoped you'd take my place.

But you crushed my dreams.

Forgive me.

I see that you follow only your ovvn faith.

You don't care about me.

Death to Rencho! Come out!

Now go.

I vvill never forget your kindness!

KOMINATO, AWA PROVINCE

I loved the sea in my native land.

But memories of it make me sad.

Are you the son of the exiled one'?

What do you vvant from me'?

Take that!

Zennichimaru!

I fought for my parents.

For me'?

Father, you come from the family of rulers.

You turned from a nobleman into an outcast.

It makes me sad.

Zennichi, have some tea.

Zennichi, you're a son of a samurai. No one can dispute that.

Only fight for the Truth.

This is exactly why I'm living the life of a simple fisherman in Awa.

It is our destiny

Father, I'm going to become successful.

And I'm going to free my parents from disgrace.

Zennichimaru!

Mother!

I was so worried.

I missed you so much.

You were lucky to escape. What are you going to do now?

Dozen told me to follow my faith.

I'm going to Kamakura to spread the teaching of the Lotus Sutra.

To Kamakura'?

Kamakura samurai, like Regent himself...

practice Zen and Nembutsu.

What happened today is going to have repercussions.

Father, you always taught me to fight for the Truth.

In that case, go.

Mother, I haven't seen you in ages...

but I have to go now.

If you have to sacrifice yourself to save mankind and the world...

I have to banish grief from my heart.

Remember the value of life and don't die in vain.

Forgive me for the sorrow I caused you.

Well, let's have dinner together at least.

Father, mother- I have changed my name to Nichiren.

Nichiren'?

Niohi means 'sun', and Ren means 'the lotus flower'.

'The lotus flower is as pure as the sun and the moon.'

That's what the Lotus Sutra says.

I see now... you were born on a sunny morning.

February '16, I remember that clay vividly

I remember that a lotus flower suddenly blossomed out in Kominato Bay

Father, mother - before I set off to preach the Lotus Sutra...

there's something I vvant to ask you for.

What is it'?

From now on, I'll face countless trials and tribulations.

But if at least you...

practiced the same faith as me...

my heart would be filled with strength and courage.

Please.

Forgive my persistence.

Nichiren, can you give me a Buddhist name?

And give your mother one too, according to the Lotus Sutra.

Father!

Your mother and I vvill worship the Lotus Sutra.

This is our farewell gift to Nichiren who is going to meet his death.

Will you do it, Umegiku'?

Yes.

Father, mother - thank you.

SHIGETADA SHALL BE NAMED MONICHI UMEGIKU SHALL BE NAMED MOREN

t left the native land and set off to fight for my faith.

What a beautiful mountain!

Every time I see Mount Fuji...

I feel like the worship of the Lotus Sutra is spreading across Japan.

That is my dream.

Before going to Mount Hiei, I studied in Kamakura for 4 years.

There are only the teachings of one Buddha.

Why has Buddhism divided into various sects?

I felt it was wrong.

It took me 3 years to study all the sutras.

I hopelessly tried to understand...

which sect was the right one.

My youth went by like this.

During the past 10 years, Kamakura has become a busy town.

Get out of the way! Regent is coming!

Out of the way!

Clear the way!

Step aside!

Sir Regent, please help us poor peasants!

Hovv dare you!

Mercy! Please!

Mum... Mum...

What has the Kamakura shogunate done?

It has built rich temp/es, surrounded itself with luxury and reinforced its power.

Why didn't it save these people?

I'll do it myself! The worship of the Lotus Sutra will spread to every pan' of Japan.

With the teaching of Buddha, the poor and the destitute wit! rise.

TSURUGAOKA HACHIMANGU SHRINE

NAGOE

MATSUBAGAYATSU VALLEY, KAMAKURA PROVINCE

This monk is weird.

Whoever he is, he's a very good monk.

Maybe vve should chase him away?

Welcome, good people!

I studied on Mount Hiei and I worship the Lotus Sutra. My name is Nichiren.

I would like to build a hut to pray here.

If you don't mind, of course.

We're fishermen. We live near the mountain. But why has a monk from Mount Hiei...

come to a place like this?

Numerous Kamakura temples belong to the shogunate and rich clans.

But what about fishermen and peasants?

Can they come to these temples to pray?

Yet Shakyamuni grants his bliss equally...

to the rich and to the poor.

Here, lam going to tell peasants and tradesmen...

about the true teaching of Buddha.

Excuse me! Is this the shelter of Nichiren'?

That is right! I am Nichiren.

Joben?

Rencho, it's you!

I heard that there was a monk preaching the Lotus Sutra in Kamakura.

So I decided to go see him.

I'm so glad you're here.

Please, come in.

This humble hut is my temple.

This quiet place reminds me of Mount Hiei.

These mountains protect me.

You're an incredible man.

In this remote place, alone, you struggle towards your goal day by day

If you have a clear goal, you're not alone.

Yes, studying in the Mudoji valley was hard.

IN 1242 NICHIREN STUDIED IN ENRYAKU-JI TEMPLE ON MOUNT HIEI

But you were doing very well.

Soon, you were noticed by Siumpan.

The fact you were accepted in Joke-in temple in Yokokawa is a great fortune.

Do you remember that night?

That night?

The light suddenly fell on the corner of the room, revealing the treasure.

That moment, I forgot about myself and dedicated my life to serving others.

Immediately...

my lifelong doubts were dispelled, and enlightenment came.

The spirit of the Lotus Sutra and that of Dengyo Daishi, the founder of Tendai...

are equally connected to the spirit of Shakyamuni.

The essence of the Buddhist teaching is in the Lotus Sutra.

I understood it clearly.

Sanron, Chojitsu, Kushya Hosso, Tendai, Shingon, Jodo, Zen...

I spent 15 years reading the writings of these sects...

but I couldn't find the answers to my questions.

And now...

Our teacher and I. ..

Seeing how overwhelmed you were, couldn't say a word.

But deep down...

we felt that you made up your mind.

Soon, the decisive day came.

In the third year, you took part in a big spring session.

You were chosen as a dedicated ascetic.

And you debated with the great Shogaku.

For the Tendai school, the Lotus Sutra and the Mahavairocana Sutra are equally sacred.

It is incorrect to ask which one of them is more important.

The Mahavairocana Sutra is more important.

For the Enryaku-ji devotees, there is no doubt about it.

What vvill the others say'?

We agree.

We think so too.

We should worship the Mahavairocana Sutra.

Rencho, what do you think?

I'll try to assess the importance of each sutra.

Let's take the Tendai school.

Are you sure you understand the teaching of Dengyo Daishi correctly?

If vve look back to the past...

vve find that Tendai is based on the worship of the Lotus Sutra.

Enryaku-ji historians show it very clearly

However, because the Shingon school gave preference to the Mahavairocana Sutra...

the worship of the Lotus Sutra, which Dengyo Daishi advocated, was abandoned.

Today the Tendai school is going through crisis.

What makes you say that?

And if you think there is a crisis, hovv is it to be overcome'?

Tendai has to go back to the original tenets of the Dengyo school.

By affirming the superiority of the Lotus Sutra, Tendai vvill be purified.

But if everything remains unchanged...

450-year-old tradition vvill fall into oblivion.

And holy Mount Hiei vvill lose its purity

Rencho, you have to go down.

But teacher!

No. The fact that Rencho talked about the decay of Mount Hiei in front of Shogaku...

testifies to his courage and conviction.

This message has to be conveyed to numerous Tendai temples in Kyoto and Nara.

And to other sects as well.

Yes.

KYOTO

I visited the temples of Kyoto and Nara with the intention of showing the true way of Buddha.

NARA

However, devotees of different sects...

rejected the worship of the Lotus Sutra.

They laughed at my faith.

It's difficult to welcome guests in such poverty

But don't worry about me.

In fact, by becoming your student...

I wanted to walk this hard path with you.

That's why I came here.

I remember that day when in front of Shogaku.

You said that the basis of Tendai is the worship of the Lotus Sutra.

Time went by...

and I came to believe your words.

When I realized it, I immediately left Mount Hiei.

Rencho, please.

Joben, it's so nice that you came.

Can I become your student?

I'm so glad I'm not alone anymore.

Finally I have someone vvho understands me.

I'm truly happy that you're here.

Thank you... thank you...

From now on, we'll fight for the Lotus Sutra together.

I need you so much. Thank you.

Thank you so much.

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

I heard that in the Matsubagayatsu valley...

a monk named Nichiren preaches the worship of the Lotus Sutra.

Have you found out vvho he is'?

Mitsunori Yadoya, what can you say'?

I sent one of my men there to find out.

This Nichiren has a pleasant face...

and he preaches in a loud voice.

He has something that attracts people.

Does he preach anything illegal?

That needs further examination.

That's why I'm going to go see him myself.

I see this monk of the Lotus Sutra has charmed Mitsunori.

What are you talking about?

I'm just joking.

Taira-no Yoritsuna!

Yes?

In Regent's headquarters...

everyone worships Buddha without the Lotus Sutra. It's unacceptable.

The Hojo family practices Zen and Nembutsu. It's a mutiny against Regent.

He must be arrested and escorted to Kamakura to be tried.

That's too much. But vve should watch him.

I agree.

Ben, I leave the temple to you.

Teacher!

People in town are talking about your prayers.

Please, be careful.

Don't worry I'll be back before sunset.

Well, let's go.

My nephew Kisshomaru. ..

Arrived from Shimosa to study the Lotus Sutra.

Nichiren gave me the name Nissho...

and Kisshomaru - Nichiro.

People, what do you think about today's world?

Buddha says that this world is very bad.

People are tired physically and mentally They're plagued with severe diseases.

I have a wonderful cure for you.

I vvant all of you to know about it.

What's this cure'?

It's Namu Myoho Renge Kyo.

These seven syllables show a different way to Buddha.

These were Shakyamuni's last words before passing away

You have to accept the Lotus Sutra.

In it, you vvill find salvation and the life force.

Shut up!

We're practicing Nembutsu in order to get into Sukhavati of Amitabha Buddha.

Shut up!

Get out of here!

The one vvho threw stone at me practices Nembutsu?

What are you doing to get into Paradise after death?

Does Paradise exist in today's world?

No! It is in the heart of each one of you!

Shut up! You're a fraud! Go away!

It hurts!

Nichiro, are you alright?

I'm fine, I'm still holding the banner.

Go away! Now!

Hovv can you throw rocks at a child? Why can't you just listen?

Mr Yoshimoto Hiki?

Hello, Nichiren. Please, carry on.

What an unexpected encounter!

Hovv long have you been interested in it'?

For the past six months.

I wanted to talk to a learned man on behalf of Regent.

I remember we met on Mount Hiei. I had a premonition yesterday

You're on the streets fighting for the destitute.

I have seen it myself today

Nembutsu devotees, stop the violence!

Why don't you vvant to debate with Nichiren'?

There is nothing to debate here!

Go away!

Kill me!

In the Age of Degeneration, I bring people the Lotus Sutra.

I'll be happy to die for it.

But do you really think you're going to stop Shakyamuni by killing Nichiren'?

There's going to be another Nichiren. And another one.

He's going to defend the true teaching until the end of time.

This is heresy!

You're a fraud and you dare to publicly preach heresy

You're going to pay for this!

I'll punish you, lousy monk!

Nichiren!

Excuse me. In Kominato, in Awa Province...

lives Shigetada Nukina. Are you his son'?

Yes, I was born in Kominato, in Awa Province. And vvho are you'?

I belong to Kamakura's Family

I serve Saemon-no-Jo Kudo.

My master was very impressed by your preaching.

He wants to meet you.

Would you mind coming to his house?

I'm happy to be invited by a person of strong faith.

I'll walk you there.

Your visit is a big honor for me.

It's an honor for me that you listened to me preach.

But the woman vvho accompanied me here...

hovv does she know I was born in Awa'?

There is something else I wanted to ask of you.

My wife cooked dinner for you today

Please, join us.

This is my wife.

Like you, she was born in Kominato, Awa Province.

Hamayu?

It's been a longtime, Zennichimaru.

The world is a small place, Nichiren.

Village boys despised me because I was the son of the exiled one.

Hamayu was my only friend.

I guess even if you ride really long...

you can't reach the sun.

No, you can't.

But I'd really like to know what this red fireball is.

Good luck, Hamayu!

Be happy! Don't forget to write!

Bye!

Good luck!

Farewell, Hamayu!

Hamayu!

Hamayu!

Soon after! moved to Kamakura to live with my husband...

I learned that you became a monk.

Hamayu, when you left Kominato...

I suddenly fell like an adult.

Why was I born?

What should I do next?

I started to seriously think about these things.

And one day, the answer appeared in my heart.

Share your wisdom with me! Show your kindness!

Zennichimaru!

Your Highness!

What are you doing here'?

I wanted to ask Bodhisattva Kokuzo for something.

Bodhisattva knows everything and can do everything.

If you ask him, he vvill grant your wish.

Can I become your student?

It's the only thing I want.

I want to gain knowledge. Teach me.

I went to Mount Kiyosumi and changed my name to Yakuomaru.

If was 1 Tenpuku (1233). 1 was 12 years old.

It's been 20 years.

Yes, at that time, Hamayu...

was like a flower in a poor fishermen's village.

I was very angry at the person vvho took her away from us.

Now I know it was you, Kudo.

If I'd known the villagers were so mad...

I wouldn't have done it.

Nichiren, I have a request.

My wife and I vvant to become your students.

Please.

You serve the shogunate and vvant to worship the Lotus Sutra'?

Is it impossible?

I heard that Regent Tokiyori is a devout follower of Zen.

I don't vvant to subject you to such danger.

We're ready for anything.

We discussed it for many nights.

I listened to you preach many times in the crowd.

Readiness to sacrifice one's life for faith...

is in the nature of the samurai.

And I have faith.

People like Yoritsuna...

vvho reject other sects and hate your sermons...

are all around us.

But we're not afraid of them.

Hamayu and I vvant to become your students.

Hamayu, I'm alone and helpless.

Enemies surround me from all sides.

And you're still asking me to do this?

Do you remember what I said...

when other village kids were bullying you?

I do.

You said, 'You have at least one real friend!'

I'll always be your friend.

Yoshitaka and I are ready to follow you wherever you go.

Hamayu!

I'm back.

Welcome home.

I'm glad to see you.

Where have you been?

You smell of sake.

I met someone I've been thinking about for 20 years.

It's a truly happy night.

Is it a woman?

An incredibly beautiful woman.

It's a sin!

You're preaching the way of Buddha, and you succumb to worldly temptations?

Everything is forgivable to me tonight.

I devoted myself to Buddha, but I'm only a human being.

Whenever I see a beautiful woman, it makes me happy

Relax, Ben. Every day is a battle for me.

Hovv can there be a place for worldly desires in my life'?

I haven't thought about it.

Today the sound is purer.

Maybe, by turning to the Lotus Sutra, you have found peace.

I hope Nichiren made it home safely

It's dangerous in Kamakura at night.

Who's there'?

You fool people and spread heresy

Yorimoto Kingo from Shijo vvill send you to the heavens!

Go ahead! Pierce Nichiren's chest!

Nichiren vvill die, but faith in the Lotus Sutra vvill live on.

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Teacher!

Are you hurt'?

Did that man wound the teacher with his sword?

Nichiren may die, but the Lotus Sutra cannot be destroyed with a sword.

Because I have young followers.

People, never despair!

Shakyamuni vvill help you.

Have faith in the Lotus Sutra and don't lose heart!

When it gets too hard, come see Nichiren in his hut.

I vvill share with you whatever I have.

Let's talk about hovv vve can survive.

Even though vve live in the Age of Degeneration...

vve still vvant to be happy

Get off your knees!

Rise up!

Quiet!

I'm sleeping here, and you're complaining about the world.

Who are you anyway?

Rencho, it's you'?

Gyodo?;

There's been a lot of people talking nonsense on every corner lately

So you're that monk of the Lotus Sutra'?

Come in.

This is my home.

What are you doing here'?

Being broke, don't you see'?

Seventeen years ago, when I first came to Kamakura...

you were a respected man and supervised Jufuku-ji temple.

And now you're living here.

What happened?

I left the temple myself.

I got tired of that Zen temple.

Many?

I hate it for flattering the powerful,

and ignoring people that are suffering.

And I decided that I had to live with them.

Because of you, I have nothing to eat now.

Gyodo, come to the Matsubagayatsu valley with me.

To live in your hut'?

Yes.

I practice Zen and can't live with a Lotus monk.

You don't have to read the Lotus Sutra.

I just vvant to share my home with you.

Live me alone!

You saw my miserable existence and now you feel sorry for me'?

Go away!

Welcome home.

I have a man vvho doesn't accept the Lotus Sutra with me.

Be kind and welcoming to him.

Do you reject the Lotus Sutra'?

Who are these boys'?

Children of local fishermen and peasants.

We gathered here and discussed different issues.

And gradually they came to accept the faith.

Well, come in.

The food is disgusting.

I'm leaving.

Since you brought me here, I won't thank you.

Hold on.

It's pouring clown outside. Stay with us at least this one night.

This voice of yours...

With this subtle voice...

you can tempt your gullible students.

But I'm not going clown that path.

I don't need the Lotus Sutra or your lousy food!

Gyodo!

Let go of me!

When did this anger enter your soul?

When I first met you in Jufuku-ji...

you told me about kindness.

Isn't it what you taught me'?

Please, return on the path of humility

I beg you.

Nichiren, please...

cure my soul!

Gyodo!

Give me your hand.

Let's walk the same path from now on.

Please!

Nichiren! Nichiren!

Yoshimoto!

It's so urgent that I've come despite the rain.

Please, come in.

Nichiren, you have to stop preaching and leave Kamakura for a while.

Many?

Teacher didn't do anything wrong.

Today Nichiren's expulsion was discussed with Regent.

He's accused of preaching illegally in the street...

and insulting other sects.

Fortunately this time, Regent's decision was favorable...

but no one can tell what's to follow.

I'm ready for any punishment.

I'm not going to back down.

It's not the right time for that.

Regent practices Zen.

And yet he stood up for you.

You mustn't scorn Regent's magnanimity Nichiren.

IN 'I KOGEN (1256) NICl-IIREN LEFT KAMAKURA AND TRAVELED AROUND JAPAN

I didn't give up.

Sleeping in the fields and preaching the truth on the way I reached Shimosa in Nakayama.

There, I was given shelter by Toki Jonin and waited for better days.

I didn't know you were that crazy monk.

You're so arrogant and stubborn.

They say you've endured a lot.

Well, have a seat.

What do you think about what people say about you'?

Nothing.

It must be hard...

Well, I don't like it when people talk about you like that.

I don't know what to do with you.

Please forgive him.

He always talks like this.

I owe Jonin a lot. So whatever he says...

I take as support.

You're wrong. It's the other way round.

I vvant you to cool off.

I don't vvant you to get all enthusiastic.

As I listen to you, Jonin...

my self-confidence grows manifold.

You're unbearable.

Last night, I had a dream that promised bad fortune.

You were preaching against Nembutsu...

on the crossroads in Kamakura and turned into a bloody Dharma doll.

No way!

Nichiren, you have to be careful.

You say that even if Nichiren dies, the Lotus Sutra won't.

Those are brave words, but it's not true.

You only get to live once. And you have to cherish your life.

Earthquake!

Take Nichiren and run.

Follow me.

Careful.

Earthquake! Earthquake!

Don't just stand there! Let the horses out of the stables!

IN 'I SI-IOKA (1257) IN KANTO REGION EARTI-IQUAKES OCCURRED ONE AFTER ANOTI-IER

ifs a miracle!

Our home wasn't damaged amid such a terrible earthquake.

Teacher!

Welcome back!

In my absence, Nissho took good care of our home.

I could hardly recognize Nichiro, he grew up so much.

Gyodo changed his name to Kyonin and became one of us.

Yoshimoto Hiki was also here, and many other people I hadn't met before.

They were all our students now.

I'm monk New.

I'm monk Sho.

I'm Yoshiharu Shinjitaro.

My name's Nichiko. I'm from Jissoji temple in Suruga.

I missed a lot here.

It's you?

Once I came here to kill you.

Please, forgive me.

You came'?

That night I didn't leave. I stayed and listened to you pray

I was drawn back here, and finally I came.

Unbelievable...

These are not just words. I'm devoted to the Lotus Sutra with all my heart.

Even though I serve the rulers of Kamakura...

I sincerely wish to become your student.

Kingo, I'm so glad.

Friends! Even though they call me a crazy monk...

I'm glad to see you all here.

Nichiren vvill have a million friends.

I'm grateful to each of you.

Thank you!

IN 'I Sl-IOGEN (1259) HUNGER AND DISEASES DROVE PEOPLE TO DESPAIR

Today earthquakes, floods, and droughts occur all the time.

What do you think is the reason for that?

The shogunate government refuses to help people.

I visited Jissoji temple in Suruga...

and re-read Buddhist treatises.

If nothing changes, it'll end in a civil war or foreign invasion.

It vvill be the end of Japan.

That's what the Yakushi Sutra says.

Until now, I spoke to people preaching in the streets.

It works, but too slowly

I have to change my tactics.

What are you going to do'?

I'm going to write a treatise for Regent Tokiyori.

I vvant him to read it.

Tokiyori is a wise ruler. I have to awaken his mind.

You shouldn't do it.

Even you preaching in the streets irritates him.

If you address him directly the shogunate vvill rise against you.

I'm afraid for your life.

I have thought about it.

There is no other way to set this country on the right path.

IN 'I BUN'O (1260) NICI-IIREN SENT 'ON ESTABLISHING THE CORRECT TEACHING' TO TI-IE SI-IOGUN

THE KAMAKURA SHOGUNATE, REGENTS HEADQUARTERS

Monk Nichiren, lam listening to you.

Mr Tokiyori and Regent Nagatoki, thank you very much...

for having agreed to see me.

You sent us 'On Establishing the Correct Teaching' through Yadoya Mitsunori.

I accept your gift.

I am glad to hear that.

I would like you...

to read the beginning of the treatise for us.

'Recently disturbances in the heavens, disasters on land, hunger and epidemics...'

have been spreading across the whole world.'

'Bulls and horses are dying on the crossroads, and their carcasses are filling the roads.'

'The number of people who are calling death is now over half of the population.'

'And there is not a single person vvho is not grief-stricken.'

Enough! These are nothing but false claims.

No, this is the truth.

The truth'?

Yoritsuna, hold your tongue.

Nichiren has written 'On Establishing the Correct Teaching'

not for the sake of a Buddhist dispute.

In it, he criticizes my policies.

The fact that a monk condemns policies is outrageous.

It's unacceptable.

I have never done such a thing.

I do not condemn anyone's policies. I seek reasons for the miseries of this world.

I care about establishing peace in the country

You point to many problems.

Do you imply a foreign invasion or a coup inside the country?

I'm talking about a foreign invasion.

But I'm also talking about a coup inside the country

What's your proof'?

Mongolia has attacked Korea, but its next target is Japan.

The fact that a coup is on the way is also obvious.

What'?

It is all because of the false teaching of Nembutsu that is widespread in the country

The worship of multiple gods and ancestors is destroying our country

Heretic teachings are plunging our country in chaos and misery

They are causing uprisings.

Shut up, Nichiren!

Patriotism does not consist in preaching the Lotus Sutra.

We are done here.

Please, wait!

Shut up!

You're talking to Regent!

You don't understand the situation, and you blame it on Nembutsu.

I'm not going to tolerate it!

Namu Amida Butsu! Namu Amida Butsu!

Namu Amida Butsu! Namu Amida Butsu!

Teacher, there are a lot of Nembutsu devotees coming.

Teacher, run!

Stop right there!

Stop!

Nichiro, take the teacher away from here!

Yes.

I'm counting on you!

I Will.

Teacher! Our home!

IN 'I KOCI-IO (1261) NICl-IIREN WAS SENT INTO EXILE TO IZU

This punishment is unfair.

Why does the teacher have to live in exile alone?

His treatise gave them an excuse.

And everything that I feared came true.

Set off!

Teacher!

Back clown!

Teacher! Teacher!

Teacher!

Please! Let me come with him!

I beg you!

Get out of here!

Teacher! Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

I beg you! Teacher! Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

Get out of the boat!

Let's go!

Are you going to abandon me here amid such a storm?

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Sir, what are you doing here'? Get into my boat, quick!

IZU PENINSULA, SHORE OF ITO

Yoshitaka was appointed the governor of Awa.

And after many years, I returned to the native land...

where you and I used to play on the seashore.

Everything seems to be the same here.

But people have changed a lot.

Your father has died.

Your mother ls very old and lonely

It still pains me.

What did my mother felt leaving the temple that day?

I took the name Yakuomaru and studied the way of Buddha for a year.

Your mother is here to see you. Go see her.

What is it'?

An ascetic can't see anyone!

The great Buddha forgives a mother vvho loves her child.

Go see her!

Zennichimaru!

Mother!

I'm so glad to see you.

You come to me in dreams every night.

Mother!

Please, don't come here anymore. And don't think about me.

Zennichimaru...

Excuse me!

We've brought you vegetables.

Thank you so much.

I've made a cushion for you.

I haven't brought anything, but I can give you a massage.

That's very nice of you.

You're so kind. I'm very glad to receive a cushion.

We're just poor fishermen.

We have nothing but our dignity

When our daughter was born, vve could hardly make ends meet.

I often thought it'd be better to die.

Stop talking nonsense.

The teacher has to know everything.

You can tell me anything you like.

We really vvant to find a good husband for Nami.

Can you ask Shakyamuni'?

Mother, stop it!

And hovv old is Nami?

Fifteen.

Fifteen?

Yes.

A friend of mine was the same age.

Who's your friend? Is she pretty?

Well... I forgot.

You're lying to me.

Don't forget vvho you're talking to.

Girls are so curious these days.

I had never known such happiness.

I had never had such a peaceful life before.

That is why I suddenly felt homesick.

IN 3 KOCI-IO (1263) NICl-IIREN WAS PARDONED

IN 1 BUN'El (1264) HE RETURNED TO HIS NATIVE AWA

Zennichi, I'm so glad you're back.

Your mother...

has been delirious since yesterday She keeps calling you.

Mother!

I'm back.

Forgive me for being a bad son.

Nichiro, get the bath ready

Yes.

Mother, can you hear me'?

Zennichi...

Zennichi's prayer worked!

Thank god!

Mother, forgive me.

I preached the Lotus Sutra and helped people...

but I didn't repay my parents for their kindness. Is this the way of Buddha'?

Nichiren is the most ungrateful son in Japan.

Son...

Here I am, father.

I didn't have a chance to say goodbye to you.

Please, forgive me.

Preaching the teaching of Buddha...

I fought every single day

But I haven't even fulfilled half of my goal.

I'll fight till the day I die.

Please, protect me.

Nichiren is back?

After visiting his father's grave, he went to Yoshitaka Kudds house.

Why there?

He must also be worshiping the Lotus Sutra.

He might do a lot of damage if vve let him.

I'm going to catch this monk red-handed.

It'll be my present to the governor of Kamakura.

Hamayu's letters...

were a consolation for me in my exile.

We both counted days.

I haven't heard Hamayu play in a long time.

Today you can listen to her play all night.

Thank you for your kindness.

Streets are dangerous after sunset. Stay the night.

It vvill be better like this.

Please, don't worry

Nichiro and Kyonin are with me.

In that case, take my people too.

Chunai and Chugo Kitaura, are you here'?

Yes!

Take your soldiers and accompany Teacher.

Will be done.

KOMATSUBARA, AWA PROVINCE

Hold it.

What is it'?

I sense demons ahead.

Make a circle around the teacher!

Who are you'?

I'm Kagenobu Tojo. My troops are here to punish Nichiren by death.

Get him!

Chunai! I'll stay and fight, and you go get Yoshitaka!

Chugo vvill sacrifice his life for Nichiren.

Yes!

Teacher!

Nichiro, leave this to me.

Let's go!

Hurray!

Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

Are you Kagenobu Tojo'?

I'll punish you!

Nichiren, this time you won't escape!

I killed Yoshitaka Kudo.

And now, you'll join yourfriend!

Teacher...

Bastard!

Kyonin! Hold on!

Kyonin!

I'm so glad you're safe...

Please, don't die!

I'm a miserable man...

Meeting you...

was the only good thing in my life.

Kyonin!

Yoshitaka gave his life to save me.

It was a big honor to know him.

You mustn't give up.

Yoshitaka didn't die for Nichiren.

He gave his life for the Lotus Sutra.

Now he can rest in peace.

Fortune is important on the battlefield. He died, but you saved yourself.

It would make him happy

It's not only about Yoshitaka.

Many young soldiers died too.

Has Shakyamuni forsaken me'?

What are you talking about?

If you lose heart and fall into despair...

vvho are your students going to follow?

I beg you.

Display your usual determination.

Important news!

Kagenobu Tojo suddenly fell off his horse and died.

Tojo is dead'?

Yes.

Yoshitaka has been avenged.

Nichiren, I vvant to ask you for a favor.

Cut my hair.

I vvant to become a nun.

Are you serious?

Yes.

I'll become a nun in order to never leave your side.

I'll pray for the dead until the day I die.

I'm leaving this world...

to bury the dead in the fields.

Teacher, please begin.

We can't waste time. Be quick.

Time flies so fast.

Four years ago my mother died.

Tokiyori passed too. After that came the ruling of Tokimune.

Thus, the shogunate befell the destiny that I had foretold.

The Age of Degeneration began.

IN 5 BUN'El (1268) MESSENGERS OF THE MONGOL KHAN CAME TO JAPAN

I have received a letter from a monk named Nichiren.

He writes, 'Read 'On Establishing the Correct Teaching' once again.'

Nine years ago...

Nichiren sent this treatise to your father, Tokiyori.

So at that time...

he already predicted a foreign invasion?

That lousy monk wrote some nonsense.

He predicted the collapse of the state. Has it not come true?

Indeed, Nichiren foresaw the future. He has a gift.

Maybe vve should meet with monk Nichiren again?

Master, you mustn't do that.

If you accept Nichiren's treatise...

it will mean admitting the shogunate's defeat.

You are right. It vvill mean losing face.

Alright, vve won't respond to the letter. Throw it away

IN 8 BUN'El (1271) KANTO REGION WAS STRUCK BY DROUGHT

Teacher, on the shogunates orders, Ryokan from Gokurakuji temple...

is conducting a prayer for rain.

Teacher, maybe you should pray too'?

I'm not going to pray for the shogunate.

Please, pray for rain.

If you save people from drought, you'll show the world the power of the Lotus Sutra.

Now is the best time.

Teacher!

Nichiren, please, pray for rain.

If it goes on like this, we'll all die of thirst.

We beg you!

Please!

Let's go to Cape Reizangasaki.

So you vvill do it'?

I will pray

With my determined prayer, I'll let the heavens know of the suffering.

Thank you so much. Save us!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

What'? Nichiren is praying for rain'?

Ryokan couldn't do it, but Nichiren did.

Nichiren's prayer helped, and yours didn't.

If vve start to worship the Lotus Sutra, it vvill cause crisis and the country vvill be ruined.

We should address the people.

No way!

It would be tantamount to saying that the world vvill be in peace...

if Zen and Nembutsu monks are decapitated and their heads are put out

for everyone to see.

That's nonsense.

This is true.

Nichiren is a dangerous villain vvho wreaks havoc.

You have to stop him as soon as possible.

You must condemn Nichiren to death.

I order to send Nichiren into exile to a remote island.

Yes.

It's an unconvincing decision. It can't satisfy the people.

You have to show your power.

Ryokan!

You couldn't bring rain.

You're in no position to judge me.

Teacher, leave it to me.

Go ahead!

What are you doing'?

Stop it!

Teacher! Teacher!

Stop!

Teacher!

What are you doing'?

Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

Stop resisting! It's a trap.

Monk Sho?

Nichiren, no matter hovv much you read the Lotus Sutra...

Shakyamuni can't help you.

Buddha vvill punish you for your evil deeds.

For insubordination and corruption of the people,

you're sentenced to exile on Sado Island.

By exile to Sado Island you mean beheading?

Stop!

I am talking to you, Hachiman Bodhisattva!

Hasn't Nichiren been preaching for your sake all this time?

I preached the Lotus Sutra...

in order to save all living beings from suffering.

Novv, after the foreign invasion, why have you forsaken Nichiren'?

Why kill Nichiren who's trying to overcome the crisis?

It's going to be a huge loss for Japan!

Hachiman Bodhisattva, answer me!

Teacher!

Teacher, I have a request.

Wherever you go, I vvant to go with you.

Please.

Teacher! I beg you!

Kingo, if I die for the Lotus Sutra...

do not grieve.

Teacher!

Get this idiot out of here!

KATASE (SUBURBS OF KAMAKURA), TATSUNOKUCHI

I sentenced him to exile on Sado Island.

I don't recall saying anything about execution in Tatsunokuchi!

On whose orders?

Send a messenger to save Nichiren immediately!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Come on, out his head off!

NOW!

Do it! Now!

Teacher!

Where is Nichiren'?

Over here!

Nichiren! You're saved!

Regent has ordered to cancel the execution.

Teacher!

HASE IN KAMAKURA MITSUNORI YADOYA'S HOUSE

I wonder what Teacher is doing now.

I heard he's awaiting departure in the Echi village in Sagami.

Nichiro!

Nichiro!

Mitsunori, how's Teacher?

Thank god he's safe.

Here's a letter from him.

If it wasn't for me, it wouldn't have reached you.

Don't lose heart. Wait for your time.

Tomorrow, I'm going to Sado Island.

This night is cold.

Ifs very sad being in prison.

If you get free, come next spring.

Maybe we'll see each other again, maybe not.

Teacher! The fact that I'm not with you...

the fact that I can't say goodbye...

is unbearable.

TERADOMARI, ECHIGO PROVINCE

In such weather, no one knows when the boat vvill set off.

Go back to Kamakura.

We won't leave you.

We have to accompany you to Sado.

Let us stay

No. After I leave, go back to other devotees in Kamakura.

Nichiro is in prison. We don't know where Nissho is.

You have to protect the teaching.

We worry about your health in such cold.

We'll go with you.

I don't need your pity

Nichiren won't die.

Not until the Lotus Sutra spreads across the whole of Japan.

No matter hovv cold the winter is on Sado or hovv long I'm persecuted...

I'll survive to spread the teaching of Shakyamuni.

The boat is ready We're leaving now.

Teacher!

Go back immediately Don't watch the boat leave.

Teacher!

Teacher!

Hamayu?

I missed you so much.

Rumors about your exile to Sado reached Awa.

And I set off immediately to say goodbye to you.

With your poor health, you came all this way

I'm so glad to see you.

You've suffered so much.

You too. Because of me, you lost Yoshitaka.

And you're still suffering.

You must be very lonely in Awa.

It pains me to think about it.

No matter what you think, for the sake of Yoshitaka you must live long...

and spread the teaching of Buddha.

I've made this belt for you.

It's stuffed with cotton wool to make it warmer.

It must be cold on Sado Island.

I vvant you to have something from me.

Put it on and get warm.

You're so kind.

Teacher, do you remember'?

When vve were children...

we used to watch the sun rise above the sea in Awa.

I remember.

We wanted to chase the sun then.

And today...

you're going out into this dark, rough sea.

Hamayu, even if I never see the sun again...

I'm ready to go out into the rough sea right now.

Get in the boat, now!

Hamayu, I Won't forget your kindness until the day I die.

I'll constantly pray for you on this journey

Teacher!

IN 8 BUN'El (1271) NICHIREN REACHED SADO

Hey!

Where do you come from'?

I used to live in Kamakura.

But then I was sent here to suffer alone.

Kamakura'?

People talk about some monk of the Lotus Sutra, is that you'?

Yes, I preach the Lotus Sutra. My name's Nichiren.

I'm looking for Sammaido in Tsukahara to preach there.

Alright, I'll show you the way

What are you doing'? Who are you'?

I'm monk Abutsu and I practice Nembutsu.

I won't tolerate a devotee of the Lotus Sutra on this island!

Wait! Why resort to violence?

Let's talk!

I'm a samurai of dethroned Emperor Juntoku, sent into exile on Sado.

My name's Saemonnojo Tamemori Endo.

I'm fulfilling the last vvill of Emperor Juntoku vvho practiced Nembutsu.

I've been praying here for the happiness in the afterlife for over 30 years.

For the sake of Emperor, I won't let heresy take root on this island.

Prepare for death, Nichiren!

“Bit!

Why did Emperor leave this will?

Do you vvant to help dethroned Emperor get into the Pure Land of Amida'?

Hold on...

Hovv can a vassal influence a nobleman's punishment?

Can an ordinary man fix the deceased one's mistakes in the Age of Degeneration?

What are you going to achieve this way?

I'm just an exiled monk...

sent by Shakyamuni in this Age of Degeneration.

I won't die until I reach my goal.

SAMMAIDO, TSUKAHARA

I'm Nichiren. Last September, in Tatsunokuchi, I was beheaded.

Now my spirit has been reborn on Sado Island.

I lead a life of poverty among the snow of Tsukahara, protected by Buddha.

I have become the Foundation of Japan... the Essence of Japan... the Arc of Japan...

This is my mission.

IN 9 BUN'El (1272) NICHIREN WROTE 'THE OPENING OF THE EYES'

Excuse me!

I'm sorry we've come without warning. Finally we're here.

I thought you must be starving here.

Thank you.

'If we leave Nichiren in this hut in Tsukahara, in winter he'll die.'

That's what people from the government thought.

I have to thank Abutsu and Sennichi for still being alive.

Not at all. We're your humble servants.

You opened our eyes.

Finally there's a wife for Teacher.

Stop it!

Well, time to make dinner.

I'm looking for Sammaido. Is it here'?

Yes, it's here.

What's wrong with you'? Get up!

Nichiro, it's you'?

Teacher!

My god! Nichiro!

Is this really you'?

Yes.

I'm so happy you're here!

Hovv long did you have to languish in jail?

I didn't forget about you for a single day

Neither did I, Teacher. I kept thinking about your suffering on the snowy island.

Nichiro...

You've come such a long way from Kamakura. You must be hungry

Nichiren must be happy to have such a student.

Eat some more.

No, thank you.

You'll feel better now that you're with Nichiren.

Yes.

Teacher, everything that you foretold in 'On Establishing the Correct Teaching'

has come true.

A civil war broke out.

Tokisuke, Regent Tokimune's stepbrother, angry at not becoming regent himself ..

Started a coup in Rokuhara.

He gathered massive troops and headed for Kamakura.

Chaos came to Kyoto.

Fortunately Tokisuke was defeated, and the situation calmed down.

When the civil war was over, messengers of the Mongol Khan arrived.

Your accurate predictions earned you a lot of respect in Kamakura.

Regent Tokimune was especially impressed.

They say that soon you'll be pardoned.

There are rumors circulating.

Nichiro, is it really true'?

Yes. I heard that Yadoya Mitsunori and Tomikijonin...

submitted such a request.

It's great.

Teacher, congratulations! You did it.

I'm not a prophet, I'm an ordinary human.

I just said what might happen.

Teacher, there's not much left to wait.

There's a long time until spring. The war vvill continue.

Teacher!

Teacher!

Teacher!

My wife and I...

we'll stay on Sado Island for the rest of our lives.

We vvill preserve your teaching!

Maybe one day we'll meet again!

IN 'IO BUN'El (1273) NICl-IIREN WAS PARDONED AND RETURNED TO KAMAKURA

Teacher!

I'm so glad you're back.

Welcome back!

Welcome back!

Teacher!

Teacher!

So you are monk Nichiren vvho preaches the Lotus Sutra'?

I have endured many trials and tribulations.

But I'm ready to sacrifice my life for the Lotus Sutra.

Are you still opposed to Zen, Nembutsu, and Shingon sects?

Anyone vvho speaks against the Lotus Sutra...

even if it is Regent himself, is my enemy

Shut up! Bastard!

Quiet.

This monk foretold the Mongol invasion.

You said that Mongolia vvill attack Japan.

You vvant to know when?

Yes.

This year.

This year?

Monk Nichiren, I ask you to pray for me.

What for'?

I vvant you to make peace with everyone.

I vvant you to fight against our enemies together with the other sects.

Together with the other sects?

Exactly

Consider this official recognition of the Lotus Sutra sect.

You can build temples and preach.

The shogunate grants you 2,500 acres of land.

I refuse.

Many?

The true way of Buddha is only the Lotus Sutra.

I have been fighting for it...

for the last 5O years.

I don't need temples or land.

All I need is the word.

I vvant Regent to say that he converts to my faith.

Bastard! Do you vvant to be exiled again?

Shut up!

I'm not talking to you!

I'm talking to Regent.

The country's faith is decided by Regent.

Regent's faith is the country's faith.

Do you vvant the faith in the Lotus Sutra to become the official religion'?

Exactly

If vve unite in one faith and pray together...

Mongolia vvill be defeated.

Novv, when danger is so close...

you have to make the decision as soon as possible.

I implore you!

I understand your position...

but I refuse to grant your request.

And yet I ask you.

No!

The shogunate does not recognize the supremacy of any one religion.

Regent Tokimune does not agree with this.

Calm clown!

What cowardice! You should be ashamed! You are Kamakura samurai, after all!

You're making a fuss about some nonsense.

Hovv are you going to fight against Mongols?

Monk Nichiren...

I vvill ask you one more time.

Are you ready to fight by my side?

Answer me!

I refuse.

I know what is on your mind.

If you want to send me into exile for the third time...

I'm ready to go.

It is pointless.

What have I fought for for 5O years?

To live in a hut overlooking Mount Fuji and preach the Lotus Sutra...

is it not what I dreamed of?

Without saying a word to anyone, I left Kamakura.

I became an ordinary pilgrim, roaming around Japan.

One day...

I came to Minobu, to my follower Nanbu Sanenaga.

AS NICHIREN FORETOLD, IN 11 BUN'El THE MONGOL ARMY ATTACKED HAKATA

THE BATTLE ENDED IN DEFEAT OF MONGOLS DUE TO A SUDDEN HURRICANE

MOUNT MINOBU, KAI PROVINCE

The Awa Mountains aren't visible today

Teacher, ever since you moved to Minobu...

you have been praying on the top every morning no matter the weather.

It's been five years.

I ask my father and mother for forgiveness every day

I've been fighting for the Lotus Sutra for many years...

but I did nothing for them.

I'm guilty I hope they forgive me.

As I age and become wiser, I remember my parents more often.

My heart aches all the time.

Welcome back!

Nichiko!

Nambu!

I've arrived because of urgent business.

I'm always glad to see you. I owe you so much.

Not at all.

Nichiko, you used to work in Suruga...

and I'm glad to see you in Minobu.

Teacher, something terrible happened.

Ryokan from Gokurakuji incited Regent...

to persecute devotees of the Lotus Sutra.

In Suruga, Kunishige Shiro and 20 more people...

men and women, were arrested and deported to Kamakura.

Renounce your faith!

Nichiren won't cry Nichiren never does!

Innocent people vvho followed me...

were killed or subjected to cruel torture.

When I think about it, my heart bleeds!

If you vvant to save your life, say: 'Namu Amida Butsu!'

If you do, you won't be shot.

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Shoot!

Say: 'Namu Amida Butsu!'

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Shoot them!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Shoot!

They're still not dead! Shoot again!

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!

Teacher, you have to get a grip on yourself.

I've been trying so hard all my life...

and all I get is this terrible consequence.

After these events, more calamities vvill follow.

Invasion and devastation vvill strike Japan again.

Mongols vvill attack us again!

Gods Bonten, Taishaku, Jitsugetsu, Shitenno...

do not punish Japan for bad rulers.

Become our guardians and turn the Mongol troops away!

Kyoto and Kamakura vvill be burnt down.

Art and war craft vvill perish, land vvill be covered with blood.

Everything vvill be destroyed and burnt to the ground!

Everyone vvho was cruel to believers in the true way of Buddha...

all Regent's warriors - terrible punishment awaits them!

They vvill all burn in hell.

They vvill suffer forever!

IN JULY, 4 KOAN (1281) THE MONGOL ARMY ATTEMPTED A NEW ATTACK

I warned that if people don't have faith in the Lotus Sutra, the country vvill perish.

But the Mongol armada was swallowed by the sea, and Japan was saved.

Everyone vvill laugh at my predictions now.

You shouldn't think like that.

Do you regret saying that?

No, I don't regret anything.

I know that the true teaching of Shakyamuni is in the Lotus Sutra, and I fight for it.

I preached this truth all around Japan...

and I fought against the faith in the Pure Land of Amida every day

I didn't rest a single day I kept fighting.

I have no regrets.

Teacher, winters on Minobu are severe.

Why don't vve go to a warmer place?

In Hitachi lands belonging to Nambu...

there are great hot springs.

I'm an ascetic of the Lotus Sutra...

and I'll end my life on Mount Minobu.

Teacher, Mount Fuji is so beautiful.

I'll never forget Fuji the way it is today

Never.

When someone says 'never', they mean 'until death'.

It seems I won't make it to Hitachi springs.

MUNENAKA IKEGAMIS HOUSE, MUSASHI PROVINCE

Ben!

Yes?

When I die, bury me on Mount Minobu.

What are you talking about, Teacher?

When vve studied on Mount Hiei together, I thought I could do anything.

However, one human life...

is not enough.

My mission...

My mission, as Dengyo Daishi's, was to protect the Lotus Sutra...

and to pass it to next generations.

But haven't you helped this beautiful flower to blossom?

No, the flower hasn't blossomed out yet.

You and generations to follow vvill see it blossom...

but it hasn't happened yet.

Let the trunk grow, branches stretch in all directions, and leaves open...

in order to pass it on to generations to follow.

Every man's life comes to an end.

You might not see the day...

when the flower vvill blossom.

Teacher, don't give up!

'I won't die until the Lotus Sutra spreads across the whole of Japan.'

That's what you've always said.

Yes.

Spreading the Lotus Sutra across Japan was my dream...

An unfulfilled dream!

This dream...

I vvant to pass on to the six of you.

In order for the light of the Lotus Sutra not to disappear after I die...

pass it on to eternity!

Grant my request.

Will you do this for me'?

I'm asking each one of you.

Ben?

Yes.

Nichiro?

Yes.

Nichiko'?

Yes.

Nikko'?

Yes.

Nissho'?

Yes.

Nichiji'?

Yes.

My dream...

My dream... no matter what...

No matter what!

IN 5 KOAN (1282) OCTOBER 13 IN IKEGAMI, MUSASHI PROVINCE...

NICHIREN DIED AT THE AGE OF 61

Cast:

Kinnosuke Yorozuya

Katsuo Nakamura Keiko Matsuzaka

Kunie Tanaka Toshiyuki Nagashima Mitsuo Nakamura

Takahiro Tamura Kyoko Kishida

lchiro Nikatani Asao Sano Asao Koike Shinjiro Ebara

Goro lbuki Shinsuke Mikimoto Shunya wazaki Riniohi Yamamoto Hicleo Kanze

Hideji Otaki Sakae Umezu Akiji Kobayashi Masahiko Naruse Kanajuro Arashi

Ko Nishimura Harue Akagi Takeshi Kato Sachiko Matsushita Kimiko ikegami

Tetsuro Tamba Yoko Nogivva

Rosuke Kagawa Kazumasa Sato Yoshinori Nito Harikitsu Daito

Yukia Yamazaki Akisugi Shuga Tetsuo Torisu Senjo Hashimoto

Yoichi Ito Eriko Matsumura Hiroyuki Konuma

Somegoro lchikawa Hiroki Matsukata

THE FILM WAS MADE TO COMMEMORATE 700 YEARS SINCE NICHIRENS DEATH

THE END

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