Tokiwai Gyōki

Jōwan Tokiwa Gyōki (born December 27, 1845, or February 3, 1845, according to the lunar calendar—died May 23, 1919, Taishō 8) was a Japanese monk active during the Meiji and Taishō periods. He held the title of baron and served as the head (kanchō) of the Takada branch of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism.

According to information about his birth and family background, Jōwan Tokiwa Gyōki was born as the seventh son of Konoe Tadahiro, a regent. He later became a foster son of Prince Arisugawa no Miya no Morihiro. Details regarding his birthplace and family members are not recorded.

Regarding his education, it is known that in 1854 (the seventh year of Kaei), he entered the Shinsyu-ji Temple of the Jōdo Shinshū sect in Ise Province. In 1861 (the first year of Bunkyū), he succeeded Enki as the head priest of the temple, settling internal disputes within the sect and publicly adopting the name Takada-ha (Takada branch).

His ecclesiastical career includes being appointed as the head of the congregated four branches of Jōdo Shinshū in 1876 (Meiji 9), contributing to the development of modern Jōdo Shinshū. His initial Dharma name was Enchi, but it was later changed to Gyōki.

In terms of political and social status, he began to call himself a member of the Tokiwa family in 1872 (Meiji 5), and in 1896 (Meiji 29), he was granted the title of baron (danshaku). These honors elevated his social standing further.

He also arranged for Gyōyū, his brother's adopted heir, who was the third son of Konoe Tadaburo, to succeed him.

In the cultural and artistic spheres, he was also a poet, composing many waka poems. Notable collections include "Samidare-shū," "Chiyo no Midori," and "Meiji Kaika Waka-shū," which contain his waka poetry.

No detailed records are available regarding his exact birthplace, family environment, cause of death, or other private matters.