Sect: Koyasan Shingon Buddhism
Principal Deity: Sentai Jizo Bosatsu (One Thousand Jizo Bodhisattvas)
Founded: Unknown
Goeika (Pilgrimage Hymn): “Upon the mountain of Iwamuro, The presence of the Buddha shines brightly, Eternally illuminating the world, Protected by the sacred Magnolia tree.”
Manifestation (Okeishin): Gyoran Kannon (Fish Basket Kannon)
This form of Kannon is depicted standing atop the back of a great fish swimming through the waves. It is believed that even when encountering vicious demons who devour human flesh, one can be instantly protected by chanting the name of Gyoran Kannon. This deity is revered as a guardian of maritime safety and bountiful catches. When boarding a ship, one should pray to Kannon for a safe journey.
○ History & Origins
Koshoji consists of the main temple and its subsidiary temple, Chofukuji. Its exact founding date is unknown, but it has long been famous since the Edo period as the Monju of Honoki (Sacred Monju of the Magnolia Tree).
The principal image, Sentai Jizo Bosatsu, was dedicated by Doken, a feudal lord who established Kuzume Castle in present-day Tosa Yamada, Kami City, Kochi Prefecture (about a 10-minute drive southwest of Koshoji). This statue, crafted in 1383 (Eitoku 3) during the Nanboku-cho period (Muromachi era), is a masterpiece of its time and is considered unparalleled in Shikoku.
In 1969 (Showa 44), the Sentai Jizo Bosatsu was designated as a Prefectural Important Cultural Property, and the main hall received a similar designation from Kahoku Town in 1970 (Showa 45).
○ Message from the head priest
Pilgrimage is an extraordinary experience. Taking a moment to pause and reflect on one’s past and life journey can be a valuable opportunity for self-discovery.
○ Access
Address: 102 Honoki, Kahoku, Kami, Kochi, 781-4235, Japan
Phone number: 0887-59-3582
Large Buses: Permitted
Microbuses: Permitted