I have an update on the "Moe Temple", Ryouhouji: they have a maid cafe on the temple grounds called Okaerinasai-mas, Ryouhouji e (Welcome back to Ryouhouji). Around fifty men in their 20's and 30's lined up to experience what is probably the first-ever Buddhist maid cafe service, limited to the two days following the Icho Matsuri (Gingko Festival) held on Nov. 21-22 in Hachioji City.

The nine maid employees each accompanied a customer to offer prayers to the temple, wrote messages with jam on rice crackers, and took pictures together as part of their service. I've also see a girl in a goddess cosplay outfit in one of their publicity photos. The omikuji (written oracles) go for 300 yen, and come with little prizes like cell phone straps and character magnets.

Ryouhouji has a 400-year history, but I suppose they can't rely on that prestige alone to maintain their operations in these tough economic times. It's certainly sad to think that "girl power" is stronger than Buddha's words of wisdom, however.