【Japan tourism】 Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage trip [No.67] Komatuozan Hudoukouin Daikouji

2023年3月25日2023年11月19日

It has been affectionately known by the locals as “Komatsuoji" after its mountain name.

Daikouji

Principal image	Yakushi Nyorai
Honzon mantra	On korokoro sendari matougi sowaka
Denomination	Shingon Buddhism Zentsuuji sect

Place

Temple lodging： none

Phone：0875-63-2341

Gosyuin(red stamp)

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History

It is said to have originated in 742 ( Tenpyo 14) when it was built as a branch temple of Todaiji Temple for the protection of Kumano Sansho Gongen. The location was about 1 km northwest of the current location.

It is said that in 822 (Konin 13), after Kobo Daishi visited the shrine, it was revived by Emperor Saga’s order. However, part of it was destroyed by the fire of Motochika Chosokabe, and it was rebuilt, but it was destroyed again, and the current main hall was built in 1741.

The current Daikoji Temple belongs to the Zentsuji school of the Shingon sect, but it has a history of teaching both the Tendai sect and the Shingon sect in the same precincts. Therefore, the influence of the Tendai sect is also great, and there is Tendai Daishido on the right side of the main hall, and Fudo Myoo and Bishamonten are on the side of the principal image.

Highlight

Once a year, volunteers from the neighborhood serve hyakka udon on the grounds of the shrine. Udon noodles made with a type of vegetable called hyakka, and some regulars schedule their pilgrimage to coincide with the day of the reception, making it a spring tradition at Daikoji Temple.

【Kongorikishi Statue at Niomon Gate】With a height of 314 cm, it is the largest sacred place in Shikoku. It is said to have been made by Unkei and is a cultural property designated by the prefecture.

【7 days lantern】A red candle is lit in the main hall for 7 days and prayers are held. It is said that there are benefits such as recovery from illness, safe childbirth, and good relationships.