Temple 40, Kanjizaiji
History of the temple
The temples in Ehime are called Temples of Enlightenment. Kanjizaiji is the first of these and farthest from Temple One, Ryōzenji. It is called, “the secret checkpoint of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.” It is located in the southernmost town in Ehime, facing the beautiful coast of the Uwa Sea. Visitors can fully enjoy the scenery of Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park, which is known for marine recreation and pearl production.
According to legend, Kobo Daishi visited here in 807 by order of Emperor Heijo (reigned 806-809). He carved and enshrined the principal image of Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha) and the supporting images of Amida Nyorai (Buddha of Limitless Light and Life) and Juichimen Kannon Bosatsu (Eleven-faced Bodhisattva Who Hears the Sounds of the World) from a single sacred tree, and founded the temple. He also carved Namu Amida Butsu (“I venerate Amida Buddha”) on the remaining part of the sacred tree, created a boat-shaped seal, and prayed for curing the illnesses of all people.
Emperor Heijo presented the temple with an imperial tablet named Heijōzan and frequently visited the temple. He collected the temple stamps, dedicated sutras, and sent an imperial envoy every year to perform the Goma fire ritual. The next ruler, Emperor Saga (reigned 809-823) also often visited the temple. For this reason, this area is called Misho (Imperial Land) or Hirajo after the name on the imperial tablet.
In 1638 Kusho Hoshinno from Daikakuji stayed at the temple and gave it the name Yakushiin. At that time the temple had vast land holdings, seven major buildings, and 48 branch temples. However, all the buildings were destroyed by fire. Since then, the temple has made efforts to restore its past glory as a temple of the Date family, the feudal lords of Uwajima.
Highlights
Eight Buddhas
In 1978, eight stone statues were carved as guardian deities of the twelve Zodiac signs: Senju Kannon Bosatsu (Year of the Rat), Kokuzo Bosatsu (Ox and Tiger years), Monju Bosatsu (Rabbit years), Fugen Bosatsu (Dragon and Snake years), Seishi Bosatsu (Horse years), Dainichi Nyorai (Sheep and Monkey years), Fudo Myōō (Rooster years), and Amida Nyorai (Dog and Boar years). Visitors can make a wish by pouring water on the guardian deity of their zodiac sign.
Heart Sutra Treasure Pagoda
Kobo Daishi prayed for the healing of Emperor Heijo's illness during his pilgrimage to the temple. In accordance with this legend, worshipers from all over Japan dedicate copies of the Heart Sutra to the temple. In 1978, a building was constructed to house these sutras, with the Hannya Bosatsu inside and the sutras in a subterranean hall.
Others
- Principal image and supporting images
- The seal of Namu Amidabutsu
- Hondo (rebuilt in 1964 with funds provided by believers from all over Japan)
- Daishido (1993, made of hinoki cypress with a tented roof.) Visitors can step on sand from all the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage in a corridor.
Annual Events
- Daishi Ennichi (Kobo Daishi Day): March 21
- Hana Matsuri (Buddha's Birthday): April 8
- Kobo Daishi Birthday: June 15
- Kobo Daishi Festival: August 21
- Kobo Daishi Ennichi (Kobo Daishi Day): October 21
Details
Number: Temple 40, Heijōzan Yakushiin Kanjizaiji
Denomination: Daikakuji School of Shingon Buddhism
Principal Image: Yakushi Nyorai
Founder: Kobo Daishi
Founded: 807
Mantra of Yakushi Nyorai: On Korokoro Sendari Matougi Sowaka
Access
Address: 2253-1 Misho Hirajo, Ainan Town, Minamiuwa District, Ehime 798-4110
Phone: 0895-72-0416
Parking: 15 cars below the gate plus 5 cars in front of the elementary school
Lodging: 20 people, reservation required -- Overnight stay only, no meals
Official website: http://www.kanjizaiji.com/
Driving directions: From JR Uwajima Station, take Route 56 toward Shimanto. In Ainan Town, turn left at the first traffic light. In 400 meters, turn left at the traffic light.