Houshuzan Shingonin Shinshoji

Temple 25

【Pilgrim’s Song】
The boat of law
Whether entering or leaving the temple
Puts on the lost self

Grounds

The main hall is enshrined on a small mountain in front of the approach to the temple. After passing through the vermillion gate, turn right and you will find Daishido, Nokyojo, and devotees hall. The stone stairs facing the main hall are as if going straight to the heavens, all are quite steep, use the middle handrail to go up, And on the way of the stone steps, the bell tower gate and Nio gate reminiscent of Ryugu Castle. The Pacific Ocean spreads out in front of the main hall when you climb the stone steps, below you can see the mouth of Murotsu River and Murotsu Port, and on the right you can see the 26th Kongochoji Temple in the gap between Gyodo Cape and the deep green.

Sights around the grounds

There is “kettle stone” related to Ichiki Gonbei on the left side of the approach, and there is Ichiki Shrine where the Murotsu port is refurbished at the Murotsu port. * Image 2

History and origin of Shinshoji

Shinshoji which stands on a hill overlooking Murotsu Port, is commonly known as “Shinshoji”. In the time of Kobo Daishi Kukai, the saint and guardian of Shikoku, from the place where the shape of the mountain resembles the jewel possessed by Jizo Bodhisattva, it is regarded as a spiritual site, and the Jizo Bodhisattva is carved by the master himself, and regarded as the principal deity.
In the beginning, the region received the protection of Chōsokabe and was called Tsuji Village, and had its height had more than seven towns. After Yamauchi entered the country, further lands of Ichimachi Gotanyo were donated, and all the temples were operated by the feudal clan. The grounds were once confiscated by the government or paid to peasant farmers, and the temple was abolished.
About 10 years after this devastation, the temple was finally allowed to be reconstructed. One corner of the storehouse was left as an elementary school at that time. Currently, the elementary school has been relocated, Daishido was built in 1963, and the main hall was newly built in 1950.

[The origin of Helmsman Jizo] The origin of “Long Life” Jizo is called “Kajitori Jizou”, In the fall of Keicho, the 7th year, when the first Yamauchi family, Kazutomo Ichitoyo was struck by a storm off of Muroto, a monk appeared from somewhere and took control of the boat, and the ship was able to safely enter the port of Muroto. The priest’s figure could not be seen, but when they looked around and visited the temple, they found that the body of the Jizo Bosatsu was wet and that the monk was a Honzon Jizo Bosatsu. The main priest is now known as Kajiri Jizo. This miraculous event is recorded in the “Kyuuki Minamijishi” historical chronicles.
Also, in the chronicle of the past and present, when the main temple of Tsuji suffered a fire for sixth time as written in the “Jizo Bodhisattva and the Dangerous Fire”, the Honzon Jizo Bodhisattva turned into a monk and alerted the villagers of the fire. There is a story that he escaped, and in the old days has has been called “catching fire” in the sense of preventing fire damage.

The highlights of Shinshoji

From the precincts and surroundings of the precincts, you can see Cape Gonto, Muroto Skyline, and the Pacific Ocean from the main hall.

Temple 25 Fudasho: Houshuzan Shingonin Shinshoji

Denomination
Shingon Buddhist Toyoyama School
Honzon
Jizou (Kajitori Jizou)
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi
Founding
2nd year of Daidō era (807)
Mantra
On kakakabi sanmaei sowaka

Access

Location
2652-イ Murotsu, Muroto, Kochi 781-7102
Tel
0887-23-0025
Parking
We use the harbor plaza. Cars cannot enter the precincts. free
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
None

From the Nankoku Interchange, drive along National Highway 32 and National Highway 55 in the direction of Muroto, turn right in front of the left curve where the Kochi Shinkin Bank ATM in Urotsu, Muroto City runs, turn about 100m and turn left in front of the town information board, about 400m Run along the road and you will find it on your left.

* Vehicles are closed due to the replacement work of Ryoei Bridge over the Murodo Ukitsu Line.
Traffic restriction period: Until the end of March 2019 (planned)
Restricted traffic type: Vehicle closed (Pedestrian traffic allowed)

⇒ Google map

Fudarakusan Shidoji

Temple 86

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Farewell tonight at the Shido Temple
Listening to the voices of prayer

Niomon

[Nationally designated important cultural property] At the end of Monzen-cho, the masterpiece of Unkei, the statue of Nio and giant Waraji sandals welcomes you to the magnificent appearance of a three-storied structure that is rare throughout the country. Along with the main hall, it was donated by the ISanuki feudal lord, Yorishige Matsudaira. * Image 1

Enma statue

According to the omens of Shidoji , Great King Enma (King of the Dead) of Shidoji is considered to be the same body as the eleven-faced Kannon of the main statue, with the appearance of the face of the eleven Buddha, and regarded as Enma of rebirth in paradise. The statue of the Great Demon King, enshrined in the Enmado, is said to have revived a nun named “Mia” in the middle of the Muromachi period. It is said that the face of Enma the Great looks like a scary face or a gentle face, depending on the spirit of the worshiper. * Image 2

History and origin of Shidoji

Shidoji is erected in the eastern part of Kagawa Prefecture, facing Shido Bay. Far beyond the sea, you can see the ridges of Yajima and Gokenzan. Founded in ancient times, by Empress Suiko in the 33rd year, (625) it is one of Shikoku’s most famous ancient temples. It is said that “Marine Divers Group”, (Oshisonoko), carved a spirit tree. It is said that the beginning of the carving of the Kannon statue and the construction of a sculpture hall, followed by the son of Fujiwara Kamatari, Fuwara Fujiwara, and the establishment of his wife’s tomb, which was named the “Death Dōjō”. In the era before his son, Emperor Jitou. in the 7th year, (693), expanded the temple with Gyoki and it flourished as an academic hall.

During the Muromachi period, it flourished with the contribution of Lord Hosokawa from the Shikoku territory, but it was devastated during the Sengoku period. Later, with the support of Suehiro Fujiwara and Omasaki Ikoma (serving Nobunaga and Hideyoshi during the Azuchi Momoyama period), it was revived by donation by Yoneshige Matsudaira, the feudal lord of Takamatsu. Shido is the hometown of the genius Hiraga Gennai in the Edo period, and there is a memorial nearby.

Highlights of Shidoji

Niomon (National Important Cultural Property), Hondo, Honzon (National Important Cultural Property), Tomb of Ama (The stage of the tragic story of the Fujiwara family, which is also written in Noh, Fujima Fumasae is said to have been created for his mother. There are about 20 tombs. On July 16, the anniversary of the Ama, the “Shiroji Temple’s Sixteenth City” is held. We open the honzon of Kannon.

Kensui Style Garden, Muzentei

“Kensui-style garden” is a garden in the Muromachi period, and it has a strong stone structure that rises to the sky. The undyed garden built in front of the Shoin is a work of Sange Shigemori, which takes a typical Zen-style mountain landscape garden and makes it feel like Ryoanji of Kyoto. Free admission.

Annual events at Shidoji

Dontoyaki
Date: January 15
Daigo Shiba
Date: May 2nd Sunday
Sixteenth City of Shidoji
Date: July 16
Takashi Shimoto Kannon Opening Book
Date: July 16-17
Permanent earth sand holding law required
Date: December 2nd Sunday
Enmadou Opening Book
Date: 17th of every month

Temple 86 Fudasho: Fudarakusan Shidoji

Denomination
Shingon sect
Honzon
Eleven-faced Kannon
Pioneer
Fujiwara, etc.
Founding
Suiko era, 33rd year (625)
Mantra
Onma or Kyaronyaki Sowaka

Access

Location
1102 Shido, Sanuki, Kagawa 769-2101
Tel
087-894-0086
Parking
Available (free)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
None

⇒ Google map

Murotozan Myoujyouin Hotsumisakiji

Temple 24

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Shining Star out of Toji Temple
Doubtful if I am lost

Nationally designated important cultural property

Famous for the statue of the stone-made Nyoirin Kannon (image 1). In addition, a seated wooden Yakushi Nyorai, a wooden moonlight “Gakkou Bosatsu”, a tripod “lacquerware dish”. All are treasures. * Image 1

Mikurodo

The cave reported where the Daishi, through penance, met Akasagarbha, one of the great bodhisattvas . * Image 2

The history and origin of Hotsumisakiji

Tosa’s first sacred place, which is said to be a “ascetic training dojo”. It is located at the tip of Cape Muroto, where the white surf of the Pacific Ocean stands. A black reef that appeared sharply in the Kuroshio Currents. There was a young man, Kukai, who struggled with his fate within the cave that was battered by sky and sea as they combined with tremendous sound. It is said that Kobo Daishi was 19 years old in 792, the 11th year of the Enraku era. The details are described in the statement found in “Sankyo Taiki” when the master was 24 years old.

“… Working hard on Tsuchi-shū Murotosaki, without sparing the sounds of the valley, the morning star figure arrived. Felt it in the heart and it entered the mouth, Akasagarbha illuminated and shone, revealing the power of Buddha and the uniqueness of the Buddha …”
In the second year of Daido, the next year after returning from Tang, Daishi visited Muroto Cape again as though by fate. In this place, which fulfilled in the gumonjihō method, the main hall was built and the statue of Kokuzou sculpted as the main deity. The Emperor Tsuji and other successive emperors were strong, and during the Ashikaga shogunate period, this place became a Tokoku Ankokuji temple, and during the Sengoku / Edo period, the temple fortunes flourished thanks to the donations of warlords and lords.
At that time, it was a temple where women were forbidden to enter as this was a temple for Shingon Buddhism. In the past, it was said that the female pilgrimage was worshiped from the tip of Cape Muroto or Maki, but this ban was lifted in 1905. At Muroto Misaki, the 26th temple that faces the east and west is called “Saiji”, and the furthest out on the cape temple is also called “Toji” has been located to the center of Muroto Anan Quasi-National Park where you can explore a tropical environmnet, and the place where Daishi became enlightened.

The highlight of Hotsumisakiji

Nationally designated important cultural property, Mikurodo cave (Mikurodo), Akeboshi stone (Legendary stone that radiated like a star and prevented the poisonous dragon’s hindrance during training by Daishi. Gabbro (an igneous rock formed from the slow cooling of magnesium-rich and iron-rich magma) can be seen from the coast.

Annual events of Hotsumisakiji

  • First festival ・・・January 13

Temple 24 Fudasho: Murotozan Myoujyouin Hotsumisakiji

Denomination
Shingon Buddhist Toyoyama School
Honzon
Kakuzo Bosatsu
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi
Founding
2nd year of Daidō era (807)
Mantra
Nōbō akyashya kyarabaya on arikya maribori sowaka

Access

Location
Murotomisakicho 4058-1, Muroto, Kochi 781-7101
Tel
0887-23-0024
Parking
Ordinary 37 units / free, 9 microbuses / 300 yen (7 am-5pm)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
Yes (100 people)
Website
None

From the Nankoku Interchange, drive along National Highway 32 and National Highway 55 in the direction of Muroto and turn left onto Muroto Skyline. If you run 9km as it is, there is a parking lot in front.
⇒ Google map

Fudarakusan Kanonin Nagaoji

Temple 87

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Longing and lonely, as the pheasant’s tail, Nagaoji
Holy name chanting in the autumn night

Nagao Tenma Jizai Tenjingu

During the Heian period, there was a famous priest at Tochoo-ji. He become friends with Michizane Sugawara who was the governor of Sanuki in the 2nd year of the Engi era, 902. When Michizane relocated to Kyushu, he went out to Shidoura and made a poem that says, “Unexpected heavenly one-month moon” which gave his heart comfort. The public also gave poems and self-portraits, and was vexed. Later, due to this ancient tradition, in the Hōei era, 1710, it was built as Tenma Jizai Tenjingu, and has the local mountain’s Shinto deity enshrined. * Image 1

Main hall

In the 3rd year of Tenwa (1683), the feudal lord, Yasushige Matsudaira, erected the pagoda. The main shrine has escaped numerous fires over the ages, and has been designated as having one of the best seven Kannon deities in Sanuki and is known as a secret Buddha. * Image 2

History and origin of Nagaoji

Since the Meiji Restoration, Honbo is a temple that was provided support to public facilities such as schools, police and county offices. Locally known as “Kannon of Nagao” and “Chikara-mochi” / Shizukagozentodoku Temple”. There is a theory that the founder was Prince Shotoku, but the theory that it was Gyoki Bodhisattva is also believed to be in year 11 of the Tenpyō era. It is said that when Gyoki walked on this land, he saw a vision from a Yang willow on the roadside, and carved a statue of the Holy Kannon Bodhisattva from that tree to become the principle deity. After that, Kobo Daishi visited this temple, and over the first seven nights of the year, he practiced the Goma ritual and prayed for national security, abundant harvest of the five grains, and for the successful prosperity of the temple. The prayer is still passed down today, and every year on the 7th day of the New Year, the “Daieyou” is held.

Daishi, who returned from Tang Dynasty, visited this area again and wrote a copy of “Mahavairocana Sutra” one character at a time, establishing a memorial tower, and then converted the temple to the Shingon sect. It was a temple that had been attributed to many emperors for a long time. In the Edo period, Lord Yorishige Matsudaira maintained the temple tower. At that time, it was converted to the Tendai sect.

Highlights of Choo-ji Temple

Tournament Yorikien / Hondo / Shizen-mae mounds

Annual events of Choo-ji

First tenjin
(Combination with a brush and cooking)
Date: January 25
Autumn Festival
(The day before Enomiya)
Date: 2nd Sunday in October

Temple 87 Fudasho: Fudarakusan Kanonin Nagaoji

Denomination
Tendai sect
Honzon
Shou Kanzeon
Pioneer
Gyoki
Founding
Tenpyō era, year 11, 739
Mantra
Honzon Mantra: On arorikya sowaka

Access

Location
653 Nagaonishi, Sanuki, Kagawa 769-2302
Tel
0879-52-2041
Parking
Yes
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
http://nagaoji.com/

From Shido Interchange to Nagao. About 6km.
⇒ Google map

Iouzan Henjyoukouin Okuboji

Temple 88

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Buddhist healing from illness
People visit Okubo Temple

Principle Deity

This underpass is where you can see 88 male pilgrims. Even those with weak legs or those who do not have time can visit the Shikoku Pilgrimage. You can worship at Daishido upstairs.* Image 1

Main hall

There is a main hall, a middle hall, and a back hall of the two story pagoda. The main hall, Yakushi Nyorai and Mikuni priest staffs are enshrined in this back hall. * Image 2

The history and origin of Okuboji

Okuboji Temple, a sacred site of eighty-eight places, and the fulfillment of pilgrim vows (kechigan). Located on the east side of Mt. Yahazu (altitude 788m) near the border of Tokushima Prefecture. According to Engi, when Gyoki Bodhisattva visited this land in the first year of the Yōrō era, he sensed a vision and built the hermitage where he trained. Koho Daishi, who returned from Tang Dynasty in the 6th year of the Kōnin era, established the temple in a rock cavern in the present Okunoin, trained in the Gumonjihō, and established the temple. A life-size seated Yakushi Nyorai sculpture was sculpted and made the principal deity. In addition, the name of Okuboji Temple was decided upon as a place of enshrining the priest staffs from the Three Kingdoms (Indonesia, Tang (China), Japan) which were received from the High Monk, Huiguo . On the west side of the main hall, there is the Okunoin at Mt. Nyotai. It is said that a spring came forth when the Daishi took a tokko (single-pronged vajra) to devote water to the principal deity. Many people benefit from drinking the water with medicine.

Women who entered the mountain were recognized from early age and prospered as female “Takano”. At one time, it boasted of having more than 100 temple buildings. However, the hardships of suffering were repeated on the temple’s vigorous activities due to Tensho attacks and arson, and the great fire of the 33rd year of the Meiji era. However, it was redeveloped by the protection of the lord Takamatsu and the efforts of successive resident priests. We continue to protect the holy light of Buddha of the sacred grounds. “Dougyou ni nin” (Two Walking Together: Daishi is always with me) The “kongo” pilgrim’s staff, etc. Oblations and offerings to the Hojodo next to the Daishido. These are offered every year at “Saitou Gomaku” in spring and summer.

The highlights of Okuboji

Honzon, Hondo, Daishido (located at the top of the stone steps. Inside there is a dojo where you can step on the sand. Eighty-eight small shrines are enshrined and it is said that you can get the same benefits as worship if you go around all of Shikoku)

Annual events at Okuboji

Hongo Makoto
Date: 12th of every month (except August)
Immobility
Date: 28th of every month
Goba Shiba
Date: March 21 (Spring Equinox), August 11 (Mountain Day)
Earth and sand holding law required
Date: September 23
Star Festival Act Summary
Date: December 22 (Winter Solstice)

Temple 88 Fudasho: Iozan Henjyokoin Okuboji

Denomination
Shingon sect
Honzon
Yakushi Nyorai
Pioneer
Gyoki
Founding
First Year of the Yōrō era (717)
Mantra
On maka kyaronikya sowaka

Access

Location
Tawa Kanewari 96, Sanuki, Kagawa 769-2306
Tel
0879-56-2278
Parking
Available (free)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
None

From Takashido Shishi IC through Prefectural Road 141 and Prefectural Road 3, turn left at the Tawa intersection and follow National Road 377 along the road.
⇒ Google map

Hakusuizan Iouin Byodoji

Temple 22

【Pilgrim’s Song】
When you hear that there is no equality
Look to the new Buddha

Box car

The main hall has three dedicated carts. They was dedicated as memorials because handicapped people who were unhealed by doctors in the Taisho and Showa eras began their pilgrimage, and their feet were healed in this temple. It is said that this temple was especially good for the healing of legs. * Image 1

Honson Yakushi Nyorai

”Healing Yakushi Nyorai, made by Kobo Daishi comes with the promise of “Healing all the illnesses of the mind and body in all people equally,” is always available. Please approach slowly while gazing on the Buddha. * Image 2

The history and origin of Byodoji

In 814, when Daishi visited this place and entered the Zen sect, the figure of Yakushi Nyorai came to mind.
The master made the following vows while thinking of the Yakushi Nyorai.

“Equally heal all people’s hearts and bodies from disease”

When Daishi wanted to practice in this area he dug a well in search of water, white water, thick like milk swelled to the surface. The priest who was cleansed with the spirit water continued the goma ritual for 100 days, and Yakushi Nyorai was engraved in the tree and was consecrated as the main deity. The temple name was decided as Byodo-ji.
Since then, the temple flourished on a large scale, but it was reconstructed by the early Edo period, and was reconstructed in 1680 by Chuko Issei Terutoshi Arinashi, who came from Iyo. The existing main hall was rebuilt in 1737 and Daishido was built in 1824.
The well where the master dug is located in the lower left corner of the man’s hill, and comes up in a place without sunshine. It is now known throughout the country as “Kobo’s water” that is colorless and transparent, suitable for drinking, and effective for curing all diseases.
Refer to the homepage of Byodo-ji Templefor details

The highlights of Byodoji

Honson Yakushi Nyorai statue, box car, ceiling picture

Annual events at Byodoji

New Year’s first goma prayer
Date: January 1 (0:00, 10:00, 15:00), January 2 (10:00, 15:00), January 3 (10:00, 15:00)
Honzon opening ceremony
Date: Late January (10:00)
Hoshi Festival (one week until New Year’s Festival)
Date: January 28 to February 4
Spring Cluster (Mikage)
Date: March 21 (10:00)
Hana Matsuri (Amacha / Botatamo entertainment)
Date: April 8
Watermelon splitting
Date: August 14 (15:00)
Star Festival (one week from the winter solstice)
Date: December 22 to December 28
Yakushi Masumi
Monthly: 8th (15:00)
Eleven-face disaster goma ritual
Monthly: 18th (15:00)
Immobility Disaster goma ritual
Monthly: 28th (15:00)
Sunday Service (Law and entertainment lunch)
Every month: 2nd Sunday (11:00)
Ajikan guidance and tea ceremony
Every month: 1st Saturday and 1st Monday (11:00)

Temple 22 Fudasho: Hakusuizan Iouin Byodoji

Denomination
Koyasan Shingon sect
Honzon
Yakushi Nyorai
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi
Founding
Kōnin era 5th year (814)
Mantra
On korokoro sendari matōgi sowaka

Access

Location
Aratanocho Akiyama-177, Anan, Tokushima 779-1510
Tel
0884-36-3522
Parking
30 regular cars / microbus, 5 large cars (7am-5pm, free)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
Yes (Click here for reservations and details)
Website
https://www.byodoji.jp/
Social media
facebook instagram twitter

20 minutes by car to 21st Taryuuji Ropeway platform
⇒ Google map

Shashinzan Jyousyuuin Tairyuuji

Temple 21

【Pilgrim’s Song】
The Great Dragon eternal in Iwaya
Holding the heart for protection

Shashintake

About 15 minutes on foot from the precincts. A bronze statue “The Master in Meditative Training” sits eastward on the rock. The enshrined heart is “the mind that stays” and allows you to feel the spirit of the Daishi. * Image 1

Ropeway

The ropeway is 2,775 meters long, making it the longest in western Japan. It can carry 101 people and takes about 10 minutes to the summit. * Image 2

History and origin of Tairyuji

Also called “Western Takano”. It is located on the southeastern tip of the Shikoku Mountains, near the summit of Tairyuji Temple at an altitude of 618 meters. A row of old cedar trees hundreds of years old rises in the sky, and the spirit of an ancient temple floats on the grounds. It is said that when Kobo Daishi was 19 years old, he trained for 100 days on the rock called “Shashindake”, about 600 meters southwest of this deep grounds, when he was 24 years old. Well-known in his book, “Sankyo Shiki”. The Gumonjihō (reciting the Mantra of Kokūzō one million times), has had a great influence on the formation of thoughts of Daishi as a youth. According to Engi, a temple tower was erected in the 12th year of Enryaku through the support of Emperor Kanmu (reign 781-86). The Yamago is named after the shrine in the training area, and the temple name is named after the great dragon (Ryujin) who guarded the master while he was in training.

The imperial family and the samurai were revered and prospered and built 12 temples in the late Heian period. However, they could not escape from the “Tensho (1573-92) Fire”. Even during the Edo period, the city suffered severe damage and was close to devastation. The Niomon was built in the Kamakura period, and other temples have been reconstructed since the Edo period. It was in 1992 that the ropeway was opened to this mountain temple, which is one of the most difficult places for Shikoku pilgrims. On foot, it takes 30 minutes to climb the slope from the middle parking lot. An ancient burial mound that has the power and personality to venerate the master’s training has been here for 1,200 years.

The highlights of Tairyuji

Shashingo, Ropeway, Cingishi (from the North and North Dynasty. Of the 18 remaining, 11 are designated as Tokushima Cultural Properties)

Annual events at Tairyuji

  • Honzon opening ceremony・・・January 12
  • Kobo Daishi Masakage Kyogo・・・March 21

Temple 21 Fudasho Shashinzan Jyousyuuin Tairyuuji

Denomination
Koyasan Shingon sect
Honzon
Kokuzo Bosatsu
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi
Founding
Enryaku era year 12 (793)
Mantra
Nōbō akyashya kyarabaya on arikya maribori sowaka

Access

Location
Ryuzan 2, Kamo-cho, Anan, Tokushima 771-5173
Tel
0884-62-2021
Parking
Taryuuji Ropeway Parking Lot / 150 cars / microbus, large / 10 cars each, all day free
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
None

From JR Kuwano Station, take Route 195 west. Look at the coffee shop (Country Road) on your right and turn right at the next traffic light to reach the Taryuuji Ropeway platform.
⇒ Google map

Ryoujyusan Houjyuin Kakurinji

Temple 20

【Pilgrim’s Song】
At the sign of the forest of crane
The Great Jizo king of heaven appears

Three story pagoda

The temple is located in three stages on the mountain range 470m above sea level. On the east side of the central stage, the tip of the three story pagoda extends to the sky, surrounded by old trees.
The late Edo period, construction started in 1817, and the upper building in the Bunsei era year 10 (1827). The characteristic of the main tower is in the slope. First stage is “Ornamental Railing Top”, the second “Feather” third is “Inverted Sacred Lotus”. A grand ceremony in a garden ritual with a mandala was held at the ritual ceremony in this pagoda, and the original ceremony tools were fully developed and the design drawings still exist. This has become an important cultural property designated by the prefecture in 1971 as the only three story pagoda within Tokushima Prefecture. * Image 1

Pilgrimage

If you climb about 4km and 1 hour and a half on a steep hillway from the foot of the mountain, you will reach the gate. There are 21 stone pillars on this pilgrimage road, which is an indicator of pilgrims’ difficulty in the ascent. This headstone pillar is called “Choishi”, and the main hall of this temple is the granite pillar from the 1st stone to the 11th stone. The era of Meitoku is engraved here. While walking along the paving stone path, one is invited to the thoughts of Daishi believers of the Muromachi period.
For the preservation of this approach, 20 years of parishioner volunteer activities have been accumulated and the area designated as a National Historic Site in 1998. * Image 2

The history and origin of Kakurinji

At 470 meters above sea level, from the foot of the trail is to the summit of the mountain, and there are scenic sacred mountains, like the Awaji mountains, overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the distance. The old cedar trees that are more than a thousand years old, the giant pine trees cover the approach. According to temple biography, it was founded by Kobo Daishi in the 17th year of Enryaku at the request of Emperor Kanmu (reign 781-806). When the Daishi was training on this mountain, two male and female white cranes spread their wings and flew down to the old cedar trees, protecting a small golden Jizo. The master, who was delighted to see this scene, carved a statue of about 90 centimeters high in a nearby sacred tree, placed the golden jizo of about 5.5 centimeters in its womb and made it a treasure. It is said to have been made into Hayashi Temple.

In addition, the mountain is named “Ryōjusen” because the mountain of the region resembles Ryōjusen, which is said to have been where Buddha preached in India. Since then, Emperor Heijo, Emperor Tsuji, Emperor Isawa and successive Emperors have been deeply devoted, and also deeply respected by military commanders such as Minamoto Yoromo, Yoshitsune, Miyoshi Choharu, and Hachisuka Kasei. The luck of the temple increased greatly. The “Tensho (1573/92) fire” that many temples in the Awa area experienced did not come here. This temple escaped calamity because it is in a difficult place on top of the mountain. The temple is known as “Otsuru” and “Otsuru-san”, and is a wild nature temple where wild birds dance.

The highlights of Kakurinji

11 checkpoint stones engraved with the years of the Muromachi period of Kshitigarbha (Jizo of children and the underworld), Jizo-san, and 11 temples remain along the pilgrimage road from the main hall. One is about 109 meters. The oldest cobblestone in Tokushima Prefecture. Three story pagoda (prefecture designated important cultural property)

Temple 20 Fudasho: Ryoujyusan Houjyuin Kakurinji

Denomination
Koyasan Shingon sect
Honzon
Jizo Azusa (Denkoho Daishi)
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi
Founding
Enryaku era year 17 (798)
Mantra
On kakakabi sanmaei sowaka

Access

Location
Katsuura-cho Ikuna Washigao 14 , Katsuura-gun, Tokushima, 771-4303
Tel
0885-42-3020
Parking
Yes
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
None

From JR Tokushima Station, take Route 55 south. Turn right at the Edacho intersection and follow Route 16 along the Katsuura River. When you see the big ginkgo tree, follow the signs and turn left.
⇒ Google map

Kyouchisan Maniin Tatsueji

Temple 19

【Pilgrim’s Song】
Someday, our house in the West of Tatsue.
If we ride the boat of Buddha’s great vows

The bell of captured black hair.

A small shrine to the right of Daishido. A temple that tells a legend in which a woman named Kyoto, who did wrong, when she worshipped at this temple and confessed, her hair stood up on end and was caught up around the bell * Image 1

Heron Bridge

In front of the temple. A bridge that is said to have been inspired by a heron. * Image 2

The history and origin of Tatsueji

Koyasan Shingon sect’s special foundation mountain. It is said to be the “Shikoku checkpoint” as the standard temple of 88 sacred places in Shikoku, and is also known as “Awa checkpoint”. According to Engi, it was founded by Gyoki Bodhisattva at the imperial request of Emperor Shoumu (reign 724-49). In order to pray for the safe birth of Empress Gwangmyeong, Gyoki Bodhisattva sculpted a small golden “Koyasu no Jizo” about 5.5 centimeters long as a precious Buddha. It is said that this temple was named “Enmei Jizou” and was built as a temple in the 6th year of the Kōnin era (815),

Kobo Daishi visited this temple and worshiped this monument. The deity was so small, and it was feared that it would be lost in later generations, so in the reverent fashion of bowing three times for each carving stroke, the master sculpted a new life-size Jizo statue with a height of 1.9 meters. The smaller deity was placed within. At that time, the name of the temple was called “Tatsue-ji”. Also at that time, it was said that it was a giant monastery with a seven building structure temple in this scenic area about 400 meters west of the present location.

The “Tensho War” (1575-85) raged on and so, Tatsueji could not escape, and this was a devastating blow. However, only the deity miraculously escapes destruction. Later, due to the deep devotion of Awa’s first lord, Kasei Hachisuka, it was moved to its current location and was rebuilt. In addition, the deity was also rescued from the disaster in 1974, in the 49th year of the Showa era. The main ceiling painting (286 tiles) of the main hall was reconstructed in 1977, Showa era year 52, in the drawn by professors at the Tokyo University of the Arts, and is a cultural asset representing the Japanese paintings of Showa along with the Kannon painting on the ceiling. It is highly appreciated and valued. The temple’s Gautama Buddha’s drawing of the Buddha triad; an image of a Buddha attended by two Bodhisattvas is a nationally designated important cultural property. On one side of Sekisho-ji Temple judging the evil heart, is the image known as “Koyasu Jizo-son” and “Tatsue Jizo-san”

The highlights of Tatsueji

The bell of captured black hair, the main hall, and the Kannon-do

Annual Event at Tatsueji

New Year’s Eve
Date: New Year’s Day-3rd
Amulet, good luck, star festival prayer meeting
Date: Setsubun
First Party Ceremony,
Date: February 23-25
Summer party ceremony, Segaki
Date: July 24
Ancestors, lost children in pregnancy, running water
Date: November 23
Goma Prayer Meeting
Date: Every Saturday 13:00
Yoga class
Date: Every Monday Thursday 14: 00 ~ 15: 00

Temple 19 Fudasho: Kyouchisan Maniin Tatsueji

Denomination
Koyasan Shingon sect
Honzon
Enzo Jizo
Pioneer
Gyoki
Founding
Tenpyō era 19 (747)
Mantra
On kakakabi sanmaei sowaka

Access

Location
Tatsue-cho Aza Wakamatsu 13, Komatsushima, Tokushima 773-0017
Tel
0885-37-1019 (representative)
Parking
Normal / 30 units (300 yen), Microbus / 5 units (1000 yen), Large size / 6 units (1000 yen)
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
Yes (200 people)
Website
http://www.tatsueji.com/

Proceed west from JR Minami-Komatsushima and turn left at the Hikainocho intersection. Go south on Route 55. Follow the signs and turn right and follow the directions.
⇒ Google map

Seijyuzan Enmeiin Jorakuji

Temple 14

【Pilgrim’s Song】
You will arrive at the shore of Hall of Peace someday.
If you go by the boat of Buddha’s Great Vows

Rakuen Hall

Established as a social welfare facility for war-affected orphans in 1955, it was approved as a social welfare corporation in 1963.
It supports children from 1 to 18 years old. This is the only sacred site on the Shikoku pilgrimage that has a child-care facility.

Araragi Daishi

A huge tree with a circumference of 8 meters and a height of 10 meters on the right side of the main hall. Prayers are made here for diabetic healing.

The history and origin of Jorakuji

This is the only Shikoku cemetery that has Maitreya as the principal deity. Maitreya is a future Buddha that is said to emerge after 5670 million years and continue to work for the salvation of people. In the national treasures of Goryu-ji Temple in Kyoto, the buddhist statue of Maitreya, who stands on one knee and supports her cheek with the right hand, has a beautiful facial expression and is a Buddha that gives the light to the master. According to Engi, during the 42-year-old “bad luck” year of Kobo Daishi, when he was practicing the secret rituals in this area, Maitreya, who was incarnated with many bodhisattvas, came to greet him. The Daishi immediately felt it, carved the statue in the nearby tree, and erected a hall and made it a principal deity. The master said in a passage to the will of the Lord, “After I closed my eyes, I went to Tosotten (one of the six heavenly realms of desire) and in front was Jison Maitreya. After 56 million years we will be regenerated. The passionate feelings about Jorakuji are expressed.

Later, Daishi, the master, built the temple, and the auditorium, the three-storied pagoda, Niomon, etc. and were erected by prayers who were known for the reconstruction of Koyasan. In the Muromachi period, it was also a place of prayer for the Awa Shugo Daimyo, but it was burned down by the “Tenshō era fires” and reduced to ashes. However, in the early Edo period, it was reconstructed, and in the late 15th year of the Bunka era, (1818), it was moved from the lowland valleys to the current “Running Water Garden”, about 50 steps up from the stone steps. The “Running Water Garden” is a place where faults of deformed bedrock overlap. This brings out the charm that blends with the beauty of nature.

The highlights of Jorakuji

Changrakuen / Araragi Daishi / Ksitigarbha, the bodhisattva who guards children (in front of the main hall. Praying for healing of children’s bed-wetting, night crying, toothache, foot pain, etc.)

Temple 14 Fudasho: Seijyusan Enmeiin Jyourakuji

Denomination
Koyasan Shingon sect
Honzon
Maitreya
Pioneer
Kobo Daishi
Founding
Hirohito 6th year (815)
Mantra
On maitareiya sowaka

Access

Location
Kunfucho Enmei 606, Tokushima, Tokushima 779-3128
Tel
088-642-0471
Parking
Normally about 10 cars, free
Shukubo
(TempleLodging)
None
Website
None

From Aizumi Interchange, take Prefectural Road No. 1 to Tokushima City. If you join with National Highway No. 192, it will run towards Ishii Town, and you will see a signboard if you run Prefectural Road No. 21 and Prefectural Road No. 207.
⇒ Google map