Ryoshozan Dorinin Shiromineji

Temple 81

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Out of the temple’s hoarfrost
The voices of the law honors the holy name

Chokugakumon to Tonshōjiden

The royal gate and Tonsho-ji temple built by the Takamatsu feudal priest Matsudaira are very elaborate in both decoration and structure. It is a precious building, and the style of worshiping the Emperor, God, and Buddha in one hall is unparalleled in all Japan. * Image 1

Zodiac Protection Gate

Each temple on the grounds has its own guardian deity of the zodiac (“eto”), and many worshipers, after visiting the Main hall and Daishido, visit the hall where the guardian deity of their own zodiac is enshrined. * Image 2

History and origin of Shiromineji

Shiromineji is located in the middle of Kagawa Prefecture, where the five peaks of the sacred peaks of Aomine (Blue Peak), Kyomine (Yellow Peak), Akamine (Red Peak), Shiromine (White Peak), and Kurohine (Black Peak) are located, and Shiromine Moutain is the furthest west. A quiet old temple with a magnificent view of the Seto Inland Sea from the approach to the temple, where Kobo Daishi and Chisho Daishi, the child of Daishi’s sister, first founded it. In the 6th year of the Kōnin era, Kobo Daishi dug a water well using his “Nyoi” sceptre (used by monks when chanting sutras) with a Cintamani stone (a wish fulfilling jewel) at the summit of Mt. Shiromine. He prayed for the alleviation of suffering for all living things. Later, Chishiro Daishi was led by Jinushigami (a Shinto folk deity) and climbed Mt. Shiromine to receive the oracle of the white-haired old woman, the god of the mountain, and carved a thousand-handed Kannon statue with a spiritual tree that was fragrant and shimmered in the Seto Inland Sea. It is reported that the temple was built with this as the principle deity.

This temple, which has a mellow sound called Shiromine, has two famous stories.

Emperor Sotoku, who was destroyed by the revolt of the Hōgen era, and by Imperial decree diverted to Sanuki, died lonely and desolate, unable to return to the capital, and is entombed in a mausoleum. However, because there were a series of incidents in the city, generations emperors, lords, and warlords also worshiped the Bodhisattva, and development of urban locales, became further devoted to music, poetry, and various spiritual treasures. In particular, after the 100th generation, Emperor Komatsu, dedicated the royal treasure of “Toshonji”, and devoted himself to the Hokke-do where the spirit of the Emperor is enshrined and expressed his reverence. In the first year of the Nin’an era, the story of Saikou Daishi who had a friendship with the Emperor, who sang and exchanged songs with the Emperor’s spirit when visiting the shrine for memorial service, is also famous in the legend of Akinari Ueda’s “Ametsuki Monogatari”. In addition, there is also a (Tamazusaki) “Tree of Precious Letters” that tells the tragic story of the Emperor in the grounds.

In addition, it is said that Mt. Shirakaba lives in a tempura called Monk Sagami, a kind heart of Japan. Suddenly, there was a sudden unexpected visitor, a high priest of Pure Land Buddhism, so the monk went out to buy tofu and suddenly someone pushed on his back and he had a sense of flying in the sky. At at the next moment, he received some fine silk tofu, the kind you would never find in the countryside, and suddenly found himself standing at the place he was before. The story is still handed down that Monk Sagami Tengu helped a youngster who suddenly went shopping.

At the time of residence within the grounds, the number of towers was at 21 and it was very prosperous, but due to times of thunderstorms and soldiers burning the temples, the only way it was able to survive is due to the reconstruction efforts of Lord Ikoma’s family and the Matsudaira family.

The highlights of Shiromineji

For buildings, the Thirteen Stone Pagodas, Yamamon (Seven Buildings Gate), Onarimon, Imperial Gate, Guest House, Tekkamon, Tonsho-ji Temple, Yakushido, Gyodo, Amida-do, Hondo, Daishi-do, and Art The temple amount is an important cultural property of the country, and has many other designated cultural properties.

In the precincts is the Shirakaba Mausoleum, the only emperor’s graveyard in Shikoku, and the guardian deity of all zodiac signs is enshrined in each hall.
Many flowers can be enjoyed throughout the year, including big fir trees designated as protected trees in Kagawa Prefecture, especially cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangea in summer, and autumn leaves in autumn.

The approach to the shrine has the largest drop in the prefecture, and there is the infantile waterfall, also called the phantom waterfall, and the Shiramine observatory where you can see the Seto Inland Sea.

Also, since ancient times, Honzon Senju Kanzeon-an has been revered as a substitute for Kannon, the sanctuary of Shirakaba Daigongen (Sagamibo) as a god of good luck, prosperity of business, and battle, and Emperor Sotoku has been worshiped as a god of mischief, entertainment, and academics.

Annual events at Shiromineji

New Year’s Day Amendment (New Year Prayer)
Date: January 1-3
Venue: Gomado, Tonji Temple
New Year’s Day Mamoru Hosho (Kaitetsu Fire Training)
Date: Last Sunday in January around noon
Place: Tonji Temple
Star ritual
Setsubun February 3 15:00
Place: Gomado
Eiji’s earth and sand holdings Higashi law summary
date and time: Last Sunday in April at 13:00
Place: Gomado
Senninkai (Honzon Senju Kannon Festival)
Date and time: July 10th, 10:00 pm
Place: Main Hall
Emperor Seotoku Emperor’s ceremonial
date and time: September 21 at 9 o’clock
場所:白峯陵
General Journey to the Young People’s Career
Date: 1st Sunday of November 13:00
Place: Tonjoji Temple
Star ritual
date: Winter solstice December 22, 15:00 * However, the year of December is December 21
Place: Gomado
The night of the lanterns
Date: New Year’s Eve Around 23:45
Place: Belfry Hall * We will distribute the clay bells of the zodiac on a first-come, first-served basis.
Monthly goma prayer and recreation (Fudomyō-Ohri)
Date and time: 10:00 on the 28th of every month * Except for January and April because they overlap with legal requirements
The 81st Fudasho Ryoshozan Dorinin Shiromineji

Temple 81 Fudasho Ryoshozan Dorinin Shiromineji

Denomination
Shingon Buddhism Omuro
Honzon
Senju Kanzeon
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi, Sophia Daishi
Founding
Kōnin era 6th year (815)
Mantra
On basara tarama kirikuく

Access

Location
Omicho 2635, Sakaide, Kagawa 762-0016
Tel
0877-47-0305
parking
Available (free, about 200 cars)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
Available (only in spring / autumn, groups only, irregular holidays, reservation required)
Website
http://www.shiromineji.com/
Social Media
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⇒ Google map

Dodozan Toumyouin Zenrakuji

Temple 30

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Ichinomiya where many people gather
I wonder if it will flourish in the past and now

Plum Viewing Jizo

Left of Ajizodo. Established in 1816, 13th year of the Bunka era. A rare Jizo who is said to grant relief from sickness and troubles from the neck. In recent years, many participants have been praying for success in brain disease and to receive neurological healing. * Image 1

Amanojaku (wicked imp)

An evil spirit who supports stone water purification cistern in the temple grounds. Amanojaku is the original form of the face of the demon attached to the Bishamon deity.

The history and origin of Zenrakuji

This area, about 6 km to Kochi Castle and about 4 km to JR Kochi Station, was once called “Kamibe-go” and is the oldest prosperous region in Tosa. According to Engi, Kobo Daishi visited this area in the same year after the Emperor Kanmu reigned (781 to 806). Founded and designated as a sacred place and established Zenrakuji as a luxurious temple for Takagamo Daimyo-jin, the total guardian of Tosa Kuni Ichinomiya. It was founded and set as a sacred place.
Since then, the temple has been dedicated to the protection of the beacons as a temple of Buddhism and has prospered by enlightening the faith of the Buddha. In particular, during the time of Tadayoshi Yamauchi, the second lord of Tosa, the temple prospered and grew with the protection of military patronage. However, following the difficulties of the abolition of the Buddha by the new Meiji government, the temple fortunes changed completely and hard days continued until it was reconstructed in 1964. After a period of confusion, such as the fact that two temples were able to call themselves, “Zenrakuji” it is now established as the 30th sacred place as of January 1, 1994.

The Daishido on the left of the main hall was built during the Taisho era. The statue of the Daishi here is known as the “Taikyo Daishi”, and it is said that if you are visited by a troubled year or pray for traffic safety, etc., you will have a spiritual experience. In addition, there is “Koyasu Jizo-do” in the temple grounds, and it is enshrined with Jizoson, a gentle face called Kobo Daishi. There is a legend that the priest prayed and gave relief to pregnant women who suffered from difficult birth, and it is said that there are benefits to the safe delivery and childbirth prayers. In addition, there are many people who participate in prayers for lost unborn children.
There is an open atmosphere in the residence. It is an ancient temple that flourished as a branch temple of Tosa Ichinomiya.

The highlights of Zenrakuji

Plum Viewing Jizo, Amanojaku, Main Hall (Renovated in 1983)

Annual events at Zenrakuji

Zenrakuji First Festival
Date: February 1
Setsubun amulet
Date: February 3
Flower Festival
Date: April 8 (Amacha entertainment by the women’s department)

Temple 30 Fudasho: Dodosan Toumyouin Zenrakuji

Denomination
Shingon Buddhist Toyoyama School
Honzon
Amida Nyorai
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi
Founding
HDaidō era (806-810)
Mantra
On amirita teisei kara un

Access

Location
Shinane 2-23-11, Ichinomiya, Kochi, Kochi 781-8131
Tel
088-846-4141
Parking
20 normal, 4 large (free)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
http://www.zenrakuji.sakura.ne.jp/

From Kochi Interchange, head toward Kochi North Loop Line toward Kochi City and turn left on Prefectural Road 384. After about 2km, turn left at the bus stop in front of Ichinomiya Shrine and it will be on your right.
⇒ Google map

Aominesan Senjuin Negoroji

Temple 82

【Pilgrim’s Song】
If the frost that falls during the eve does not disappear
Later the voice of the handbell for liturgy

Five great statues

To the left of the Nokyoujo. The five great kings founded by Kobo Daishi. Fudo Myōō, Yo Yoruō, Gundarimyōō, Daiitokumyōō, Kongōyasha Myōō
* Image 1

Bull Devil Statue

Inside the bushes near the mountain gate. The legendary Bull Devil is built with an impressive look. * Image 2

History and origin of Negoroji

A former giant monument standing on Mt. Aomine, the main peak of Goshikidai. Kobo Daishi, who felt the Goji Nyorai of the Kongokai Mandala on the five mountains, established “Hanazo-in” in Aomine as a place for esoteric training. Later, when Daishi’s nephew, Chisho Daishi, visited, he met Ichinose Myojin, the guardian of the mountain, who said, “Make a dojo in Bishamonen valley, Renge valley and Goya valley in this area, and a Kannon statue from the lotus valley tree.” Chisho Daishi carved a statue of Senju Kannon in the lotus valley tree, and built and established Sente-in. It is said that “Hanazo-in” and “Senden-in” were collectively named “Negoroji” because they continued to emit fragrance from the sacred tree stump. Later, it was rebuilt by the Takamatsu feudal lords, and it was converted to Tendai sect at that time.

The temple has the following legends: A long time ago, Aomineyama had a horrible monster that eats humans, “Ushioni”. The villagers asked bow master Yamada Kuroudo Takakiyo to get rid of him. However, as Takayoshi entered the mountain, the bull devil did not appear easily. So Kogyo made a request to the main deity of Negoroji. Then, on the 21st day, the bull devil appeared and was struck by an arrow in his mouth. After chasing the fleeing creature, he found it dead about 2 km to the west of Sadagabuchi. Takayoshi cut off the horn of the bull devil and dedicated it to the temple. The corner is still preserved in the temple. Ushioni’s image is popular as a talisman.

The highlights of Negoroji

The five great statues, Ushioni statues, and all-round Kannon (In the concave corridor in front of the main hall, about thirty-three thousand Kannon statues dedicated by believers from all over the country are lined up.)

Temple 82 Fudasho: Aominesan Senjuin Negoroji

Denomination
Tendai sect
Honzon
Senju Kanzeon
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi, Chisho Daishi
Founding
Kōnin era (810-824)
Mantra
On basara tarama kiriku sowaka

Access

Location
Nakayamacho 1506, Takamatsu, Kagawa 761-8004
Tel
087-881-3329
Prking
Available (free)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
None

From Takamatsu Nishi Interchange to Goshikidai area, follow the road along the prefectural road No. 180, and you will come to Yamamon.
⇒ Google map

Manizan Houzouin Kokubunji

Temple 29

【Pilgrim’s Song】
The temple that divides the country and piles treasure
What is stored remains if you go to the end of the world

Nationally designated cultural property

Image 1 is a statue of a wooden medicine Buddha Nyorai. Other cultural assets include a half bell.

The main hall (Kondo)

The appearance is simple, but it has an elegant and quiet elegance. * Image 2

History and origin of Kokubunji

Speaking of Tosa Kokubunji, the mid-Heian period poet Kinukiyuki (c. 868-945) comes to mind. The Tosa Diary written by Nukiyuki is particularly famous for being a kana diary written in a woman’s brush, and the provincial governor’s official office where Nukiyuki stayed for four years as a priest was about 1 km northeast of Kokubunji. It was called “Kokubunji tomodomo Tosa no ma horoba” and was the political, economic and cultural center of Tosa.
Emperor Shoumu (reigned 724-49) transcribed and delivered the “Golden Light Sutra” and built Kokubunji in 68 locations nationwide around the 13the year of the Tenpyō era. In Tosa, Gyoki Bodhisattva opened it as a place for prayer for the peace of the world, Taiping, the harvest of five grains, and the enrichment of all. Respect for the Emperor was great and he was blessed.
According to Engi, Kobo Daishi travelled around the area around 815, the 6th year of the Kōnin era, when he engraved the Bishamon deity and placed it in the Okunoin. At that time, in the main hall, he was trained in the “Hoshi Kyou no Hihou” (Secrets of the Stars), which is an exorcism study to ward off evil that was inherited by Shingon Yaso. Since then, Tosa Kokubunji has become the “Hoshi no Konpon Dojo” (Foundational Study of Stars).

According to Engi, Kobo Daishi travelled around the area around 815, the 6th year of the Kōnin era, when he engraved the Bishamon deity and placed it in the Okunoin. At that time, in the main hall, he was trained in the “Hoshi Kyou no Hihou” (Secrets of the Stars), which is an exorcism study to ward off evil that was inherited by Shingon Yaso. Since then, Tosa Kokubunji has become the “Hoshi no Konpon Dojo” (Foundational Study of Stars).
Currently designated as an important cultural property of the country. In addition, Nioumon was built in 1655 in the first year of the Meiji era with the donation of Tosa’s second generation lord, Tadayoshi Yamauchi, and the current Niomon was rebuilt at the beginning of the Showa era and has a two-layer structure. The entire grounds of the 1250-year-old temple is designated as a national historic site.

The highlights of Kokubunji

Nationally designated cultural property, gold temple, garden, monument (backing the main hall, cherry blossoms and peony in spring, hydrangea in early summer, persimmon in autumn, a peaceful approach to the heart, and the foundation stone of the seven-storied pagoda at the time A beautiful garden of cedar moss, a monument of Takako Kyoko’s five girls, Haruko Takagi, eldest son, Toshio, grandson, Atsuko Inabata, etc. (Discovered by excavation in 1977)

Annual events at Kokubunji

Setsubun star festival
Date: February 3
Flower Festival
Date: Old April 8
Seventeenth Night Festival (Obon General Service)
Date: Old July 17
Mikage
Date: 21st of every month
Immobility
Date: 28th of every month
New Year’s Eve night bell
Date: December 31

Temple 29 Fudasho: Manizan Houzouin Kokubunji

Denomination
Shingon Sochiyama School
Honzon
Senju Kanzeon
Pioneer
Gyoki
Founding
Tenpyō era year 13, 741
Mantra
On bazara tarama kiraku

Access

Location
546 Kokubu, Nankoku, Kochi 783-0053
Tel
088-862-0055
Parking
Normal / 45 cars, Large / 5 cars (free)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
http://www.tosakokubunji.org/

From the Nankoku Interchange, take National Route 32 towards the southern country. After about 2km, turn right at the bus stop Kokubunji Street and after about 400m you will see it on your right.
⇒ Google map

Shingozan Daihoin Ichinomiyaji

Temple 83

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Come to the front of Sanuki Ichinomiya
Someone speaks God’s heart

Main hall

The main hall, which was protected by the splendid Kusanoki, was rebuilt by the “Juppo Sesshu” (supporters and benefactor group of the temple) in 1701, the 14th year of the Genroku era. * Image 1

Hell’s Cauldron

* Image 2

History and origin of Ichinomiyaji

Founded about 160 years after Buddhism was introduced to Japan. Kaiki was the founding monk of Yoshibuchi, who laid the foundation for the rise of Nara Buddhism. At that time, it was called the Daiho-in Temple. During the same year, when Ichinomiya was built in various countries, Gyoki Bosatsu restored the temple and was renamed it Shingōsan Ichinomiya. In the same year, Kobo Daishi visited and sculpted an approximately 106cm tall “Sacred Kannon” Seishinon Bodhisattva, and converted it to the Shingon sect at the time of the revival of the temple.

The temple was turned to ashes because of the Tensho War , but was revived by Yoseki Daitoku, the founder of the restoration. Also, during the Edo period, the feudal lord of Takamatsu lifted the authority of the Tamura Shrine. 200 years before the separation of Shinto and Buddha.
On the left side of the main hall of this temple is a small shrine dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai. This is called “Hell’s Cauldron” and there is a legend that if you put your head in the shrine, the border between worlds will open. On the other hand, it is said that if you do bad things, you will lose your head. In the old days, a mean-hearted old woman who lived in the neighborhood claimed “It’s nothing. Let’s try it” put her head within, and the door closed, and the voice of the hellish cauldron said, “Go” and her head could not be removed. The lady who was terribly scared apologized for the bad things she had done so far. Then her head slid out. Then the woman changed her mind, became kind, and lived well.

The highlights of Ichinomiyaji

Hondo, Ichinomiya Giryo, Hell’s Cauldron (The legendary cauldron is said to have been made by Kobo Daishi to keep commandments.)

Annual events at Ichinomiyaji

Goma
Date: 28th of every month 10: 00 ~
First New Year
Date: January 1, 13: 00 ~
First Daishi general training
Date: January 20, 13: 00 ~
Star training
Date: February Settlement 14: 00 ~
Perpetual earth and sand training
Date: May 20
Cucumber Incantations
The date and time: Jade for July (all day)
Sennicai
Date: August 10
With night bell
Date: December 31, around 23: 50 ~

Temple 83 Fudasho: Shingouzan Daihouin Ichinomiyaji

Denomination
Shingon Buddhism Omuro
Honzon
Shou Kanzeon
Pioneer
Masayoshi
Founding
Taihō era (701-704)
Mantra
On arorikya sowaka
Location
607 Ichinomiyacho, Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture 761-8084
Tel
087-885-2301
Parking
Available (free)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
http://www.sanuki-ichinomiyaji.or.jp/
公式SNS
instagram

⇒ Google map

Houkaizan Koushouin Dainichiji

Temple 28

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Dainichiji can illuminate both dew and guilt
Or carry on walking

Main hall

It was reconstructed in 1997 using cypress and pine, and was made only of wood without using nails. * Image 1

Daishido

Refurbished in 1983. The statue of Daishi was donated by Tadayoshi Yamauchi, the second lord of Tosa. * Image 2

History and origin of Dainichiji

Seasonal flowers bloom on the temple grounds and delight the eyes of pilgrims. In early spring, the flowers of Sanshuyu, the weeping cherry blossoms around March, the Kobushi flowers in front of the main residence, the cherry blossoms in October and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
According to Engi, by the request of Emperor Shoumu (reigned 724-49), Gyoki Bosatsu sculpted and enshrined a statue of Nichidai Dainichi and enshrined it within. Later, the temple was devastated, but in 815, when Kobo Daishi was on pilgrimage in Shikoku, he prayed for the safety of the people of the afterlife, and carved a statue of Yakushi Nyorai with a nail on a large oak, and revived this place.
Since then, it has been proud of its prosperity, and has been established with a complete seven-structured temple compound, a branch temple, and various equipment, and since the beginning of the 17th century, it became a prayer temple for the Tosa clan, and the pagoda was also improved. The temple was once abandoned by the Meiji new government’s separation order, but the main shrine was saved in the main hall, which was renamed “Dainichido”, and re-established in the 17th year of the Meiji era.

The sitting statue of Kongokai Dainichi Nyorai, believed to have been made by Gyoki Bodhisattva, is about 146 square meters high and is one of the largest in Shikoku. Also, the standing statue of the sacred Kanzeon Bodhisattva at the side Buddha is said to have been made by Chisho Daishi, and it is also large, about 172 square meters, and both are designated as important national cultural properties. Also, the spirit tree of Kusunoki, who is related to Daishi, is called “Nail Carving Yakushi”, and is considered to be an “okuin”. Kusunoki collapsed in a strong wind in the early part of the Meiji era, but he built a separate place to enshrine it. The spirit tree is said to have been able to relieve by diseases above the neck, such as the head, eyes, nose, ears, and face. On the side of Yakushi-do, there is a Daishi spring where 40 spring wells bring forth water.

Highlights of Dainichiji

Hondo, Daishido, Hundred people of Noichi (100 soldiers of the military commander and Chosoga troops were used to cultivate paddy fields. They became the beginning of Tosagoji.), Ryukawa Cave (one of Japan’s three largest limestone caves) (Total length 4km.)

Temple 28 Fudasho: Houkaisan Koushouin Dainichiji

Denomination
Shingon Sochiyama School
Honzon
Dainichi Nyorai
Pioneer
Gyoki
Founding
Tenpyō era (729-749)
Mantra
On abiraunken bazara datoban (Kongokai)

Access

Location
Noichi-cho Bodaiji 476, Kona, Kochi 781-5222
Tel
0887-56-0638
Parking
Normal / 30 cars, Microbus / 10 cars (free)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
http://dainichiji28.org/

From the Nankoku Interchange, take National Route 32 / Prefectural Route 45 to the southern region. Turn left at Gomencho intersection and head toward prefectural road 364 toward Noichimachi. Turn left at the intersection according to the direction toward Ryuga-dong. Turn right in front of the bus stop Daihinji and climb the mountain road.
⇒ Google map

Chikurinzan Jizouin Kounomineji

Temple 27

【Pilgrim’s Song】
The heart of the blessings of the Buddha
The sound of mountains and water and oaths

Landscape along stone steps

On both sides of the stone steps, beautifully maintained Japanese gardens bloom with seasonal flowers. During the plum season, you can enjoy the warbler’s singing. * Image 1

Ishimizu

Ishimizu which springs behind the bell tower. It is said that miraculous experiences in the healing of illness took place here, and it is a place that also soothes a pilgrim’s throat. * Image 2

History and origin of Kounomineji

The gates and the ground spread out at an altitude of 450 meters along the middle of Mt. Kounomine.
At the end of the Edo period, the story of Yataro Iwasaki’s mother, who built Mitsubishi Estate, prayed for her son’s advancement and went on a 21-day round trip for 20km.
It is one of the oldest histories by Engi, and is said to have originated from a shrine that enshrines Amaterasu and other gods in the world of Empress Jin Gong (reign 201-69). In the second year of the Tenpyō era, Gyōgi Bosatsu, who as the request made by Emperor Shoumu (reigned 724-49), carved the eleven-faced Kannon statue to become the main deity. Later, Kobo Daishi built a temple and named it Kannon-do in about 809.
In the early Meiji era, only the Shinto shrine that enshrines Amaterasu, remains due to the new government’s separation of Shinto and Buddhist gods. In the middle of the Meiji Era, a shrine was erected on the site of the monk and the main shrine was returned, and the sacred place was revived. However, because there was no temple, in the first year of the Taisho period, Jizo-in in Asahi-mura, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki Prefecture was moved to this location.
In the 1950s, Shizuku Mizutani’s wife Shizu-san, Aichi Prefecture, had a serious issue with her spinal cord. The university hospital despaired as to what to do but at this location she received miraculous healing.

The highlights of Kounomineji

Landscape along stone steps, Ishimizu

Annual events at Kounomineji

First meeting of Kannon
Date: January 18
Grand Festival Kannon Goma ritual
Date: August 9

Temple 27 Fudasho: Chikurinzan Jizouin Kounomineji

Denomination
Shingon Buddhist Toyoyama School
Honzon
YEleven-faced Kanzeonen (carved by Gyoki)
Pioneer
Gyoki
Founding
Tenpyō era year 2 (730)
Mantra
On maka kyaronikya sowaka

Access

Location
Tounohama 2594, Yasuda-cho, Aki-gun, Kochi 781-6422
Tel
0887-38-5495
Parking
30 (normally free / paid)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
None
Social media
instagram

From the Nankoku Interchange, head toward Muroto on Route 32 and Route 55 and turn left at the Yasudacho Karahama Station sign. After running on a wide agricultural road along the road, turn left, and run about 1.5km along the road.
⇒ Google map

Nanmenzan Senkoin Yashimaji

Temple 84

【Pilgrim’s Song】
While on pilgrimage to Yashima Shrine
Warriors pray for bravery

Bonshō (temple bell)

It is said to be a “Heike Memorial Bell” in the Kamakura period. Nationally designated important cultural property. * Image 1

Treasure Museum

A modern art museum on the left side of the main hall. Abundant temple treasures are preserved and exhibited, including the main treasures, Genpei Rise and Fall picture scroll, “Genji’s White Flag”, and the Yashima Battle Screen.

History and origin of Yashimaji

Yashima is a peninsula in the east of Takamatsu City, a volcanic plateau at an altitude of 293 meters. It is known for the historic site of the ancient battlefield of the Genpei battle, famous for the folding fan of Nasu Yoichi and the archery of Yoshitsune. Yashimaji is at the southern foot. It is said that Yashimaji was founded by Ganjin, who was a Tang school monk, sailed five times at the request of the Imperial Court. However, he lost his bearings due to storms and became shipwrecked, and he was landed in Kagoshima in 753, the fifth year of the Tenpyō-Shōhō era. The following year, on the way to Todaiji by boat, he felt some incredible light of good omen rising from the top of the mountain off Yashima and climbed to the north ridge. It is said that it was built with a Buddhist temple and a statue of the Fugen Bodhisattva that he brought with him. Later, a disciple of the summit, The priest, Keiun, of Todaiji Kaidan-in Temple built a tower and set up the temple, called the “Yashima Temple” and became its first priest.

In 815, the 6th year of the Kōnin era, Kobo Daishi visited Yashimaji at the behest of Emperor Saga (reign 809-23), moved the temple from the northern peak to the southern peak of the current location, carved the 11-faced, thousand-armed Kannon, and enshrined it within the temple. Since then, Daishi is revered as the founder of the revived Yashima Temple. Yashima Temple also flourished as a sacred place for mountain Buddhism, and during the Tenryaku era, (947-57), The Priest Meitatsu visited and dedicated the statue of the the Four Heavenly Kings (Dhrtarastra, Virudhaka, Virupaksa, and Vaisravana). The present Honzon, the eleven-faced thousand-armed Kannon sculpture was built around this time and has become a nationally designated important cultural property. The nationally designated important cultural property, the main hall, was built during the Kamakura period, but temple luck declined due to the war. However, it was rebuilt repeatedly by the lords of the country, Lord Ikoma, and the with the assistance of successive lords, conveys the personality of the Kamakura / Edo period to the present day.

The highlights of Yajimaji

Samurai Bell, Treasure Museum, Hiyama Daimyojin (right of the main hall. A god of the land called the general “Tazaburo Pass” of Shikoku Pass.

Temple 84 bill Fudasho: Nanmenzan Senkoin Yashimaji

Denomination
Shingon Buddhism Omuro
Honzon
Eleven-faced Thousand-armed Kannon
Pioneer
Kanshin Wajou
Founding
Tenpyō-Shōhō era (749-756)
Mantra
On basara tarama kirikuく

Access

Location
1808 Yashima Higashimachi, Takamatsu, Kagawa 761-0111
Tel
087-841-9418
Parking
Yes
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
None

From Takamatsu Nishi Interchange, take National Route 11 South Bypass / National Route 11 to the east. Turn left at the McDonald’s intersection to the driveway gate.
⇒ Google map

Ryuzuzan Koumyouin Kongouchouji

Temple 26

【Pilgrim’s Song】
The paradise that makes hope for birth
The sky of Saiji Temple where the moon sets

Reihoden

The wooden Amitabha Nyorai sculpture, the sculpture of Buddhist swords, the bronze kannon statue, the bronze Buddhism teaching tool, the bronze tripod, the bronze bell, and the top of Kongo are all important national cultural properties. * Image 1

Holy Saint Mausoleum

According to the saint Kobo Daishi, the second generation of Toyama and the two chief priests are two saints who are hiding in the world, one is Kento Muroeji Daito of Yamato, one is a person of great wisdom within Kongochoji. A person who holds the prajna has insight to enlightenment. The master once stood in caves beneath the main temple tree of Saidera, the Daishi Zen sect, and practiced in zen without leaving, and when the Daishi had arrived at Koyasan on March 21, Jōwa era year 2, he felt great longing. On April 21, the same year, he said that he would be lonely and relocated to the same place as the Daishi.

History and origin of Kongochoji

When heading northwest along the coast from Cape Muroto, there is a small cape that came out of Tosa Bay. It is the “Gyoto cape”, where ink stone is also produced. On the summit of the cape, the grounds of the primeval forest are covered with tranquility and there is quietness at Kongochoji, and it is also known as “Saiji Temple” as a temple of Muroto Sanzan. The red stamp is also marked as “Saiji”. There is a women’s nunnery 4 km from the temple which is permanent. The young Kobo Daishi came to this sacred place where he went back and forth every day during this period. According to Engi, it was reported that Daishi had built a temple by engraving the statue of Yakushi Nyorai for the Honzon at the request of Emperor Heijo (reign 806-9). At the time of its founding, it was said to be “Kongochoji Temple” and it was forbidden to women.

The next temple emperor (reign 809-23) was devoted to the priesthood of “Kongochoji”, so it was renamed with the current temple name, and the next Emperor Kazuwa (reign 823-33) also enshrined in this place. As a priest, the priesthood was chosen to be his destiny until the 10th century and since then, it was proudly maintained until the 16th century.
Although there was some damage to the temple during the Muromachi period, the reconstruction was quickly completed, and the temples were promoted by the Chosokabe, and various temples were established as a places of prayer for the Tosa lord in the Edo period. In the Showa era, there was the construction of the Shosoin-style treasure hall “Reihoden”. The “gold and bronze travel platform” used when Daishi traveled around the country during the Heian period is the only relic of its kind in Japan and contains many important cultural properties.

The highlights of Kongochoji

Reihoden / Yuzu / Whale Recreation Tower (Whale Recreational Tower, also known as “Whale Temple”), 1x million kettle (a rice cooked by Daishi 10,000 portions that saved people from hunger)

Annual events at Kongochoji

Kobo Daishi statue opening book
Date: March 21 of the lunar calendar
Place: Daishido
Book opening of the statue
Date: December 31-January 8
Place: Main Hall

Temple 26 Fudasho: Ryuzuzan Koumyouin Kongochoji

Denomination
Shingon Buddhist Toyoyama School
Honzon
Yakushi Nyorai
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi
Founding
2nd year of Daidō era (807)
Mantra
On korokoro sendari matōgi sowaka

Access

Location
523 Motootsu, Muroto, Kochi 781-7108
Tel
0887-23-0026
Parking
Ordinary 20 cars / 200 yen / Microbus 3 cars / 400 yen / Large 3 cars / 1,000 yen (7am to 5pm each)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
Yes (100 people)
Website
None

From the Nankoku Interchange, drive towards Muroto in the direction of National Highway 32 and National Highway 55. Turn left at the bus stop Motobashi in Muroto City.
⇒ Google map

Gokenzan Kanjizaiin Yakuriji

Temple 85

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Worldly desires burn in wisdom at Yakuri
Disciples of Buddha should know who they are

Shoutendo

Shoutendo is located next to the main hall, and is enshrined by Mokujiki Shounin the heavenly gifts from Former Emperor, Emperor Go-Mizu-no-O and the Empress Gomizu no O-Tennou O-Hitou Fukumon-in. It is said that praying here will bring benefits in prosperous business, academic achievement, and marriage, and is lovingly called “Yakuri no Shouten-san”. * Image 1

Nakashobodo

Nakashobo is enshrined in the Chushobo temple that is built behind the main hall. A tengu who comes down from the mountain at night and does good for the people and goes home in the morning. There are clogs that are dedicated to the side of the Nakashoboudo, and if the clogs are dirty the next day, it was a sign that Nakashobo worked the night before. * Image 2

The history and origin of Yakuriji

On the east side of Yashima, there is Five Peak Mountain range with an altitude of 375m across the old battlefield of Genpei. A mysterious mountain like a sword pushed up from the ground. Yakuriji is at the 8th station, and many pilgrims ascend by cable car. In the 6th year of the Tenchō era, when Daishi climbed this mountain and mastered the Gomonjihō method, five swords came out and the mountain guardian Zao Gongen appeared. And he said to Daishi, “This mountain is a sacred place that is suitable for Buddhism”, so Daishi buried those swords in the mountains to protect them and carved a statue of Dainichi Nyorai and named this place Gokkenyama (The Mountain of Five Swords).

It was originally named Hokukokuji Temple, as from the top of Mt. Gokken, you could overlook the four sides of Shikoku, including Iki, Awa, and Bizen,. Throughout the calendar years, the teacher climbed the mountain again before studying in Tang. Eight roasted chestnuts were planted by Daishi to determine the success or failure of the Nitto Law. When he returned home safely and visited again, the baked chestnuts that would not sprout had sprouted. This is why the name was changed from Hokukokuji to Yakuriji. This temple was also burnt down by Chōsokabe’s solders. However, during the Edo era, Muhen Shounin rebuilt the main hall (Mima Shimen), and the Takamatsu feudal lord, Matsudaira Yorishige revived the current main hall, and enshrined Kobo Daishi’s sacred Bodhisattva as the principle deity, and came to call it Kanjiin. Gokenzan suffered a big earthquake in the 3rd year of the Hōei era, (1706), and one of the eastern ridges collapsed from the middle creating the present shape we see today.

The highlights of Yakuriji

Seitendo, Nakashobodo, Taoshido beside Taho Tower and Belfry Hall (established in 1791 in Kansei 3) There is an art lantern with the name: “For Watanabe, there is a place for hikers”

Annual events at Yakuriji

Revision meeting (New Year Special Prayer)
Date: New Year’s Day to 7th
General Young Law Association (Seitenson New Year’s Day)
Date: January 16, 1pm
Flower Festival (Buddha Association)
Date: April 8
General Young Law Association (Seitenson Spring Festival)
Date: May 16th, 1pm
Aoba Festival (Soso Nativity Party)
Date: June 15
General Young Law Association (Seitenson Autumn Festival)
Date: September 16th, 11:00 pm
Hoshi no Goma (Star Festival)
Date: Winter solstice to Setsubun
Prayer
Date: Accepted every day
Seiten Goma Recreation
Date: 15th of every month and 7pm at the end of the month
Visit all day
* Excluding 1.2.7.8.9 months
Date: 10:00 a day

Temple 85 Fudasho: Gokenzan Kanjizaiin Yakuriji

Denomination
Shingon Buddhism Daikakuji School
Honzon
Shou Kanzeon
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi
Founding
Tenchō era 6th year (829)
Mantra
On arorikya sowaka

Access

Location
3416 Murecho Mure, Takamatsu, Kagawa 761-0121
Tel
087-845-9603
Parking
Available (free)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
http://yakuriji.jp/

From Shido Interchange, take National Route 11 to Sakai Town. Turn left in front of Kotoden Yakuri Station and follow Prefectural Road 36. Turn right at the T-junction with the sign and arrive at Cable Mountain Station.
⇒ Google map