Sect: Koyasan Shingon Buddhism
Principal Deity: Kobo Daishi (Kukai)
Founded: 1881
Goeika (Sacred Chant): “How grateful I am, A Koyasan in Tosa land, Illuminating all With the sacred light of the Dharma.“
Emanation Form: Ichiyo Kannon (Single-Petal Kannon)
This form of Kannon is depicted sitting with one knee raised on a single lotus petal, floating above the water. The Lotus Sutra teaches that even if one is drifting at sea, by invoking Kannon’s name, they will be guided to shallow waters. This deity is believed to offer protection from water-related dangers.
○ History & Origins
At the beginning of the Meiji era, due to the policies of Shinbutsu Bunri (the separation of Shinto and Buddhism) and the Haibutsu Kishaku (anti-Buddhist movement), approximately 70% of Buddhist temples in Kochi were tragically destroyed. Witnessing the spiritual decline of the people, the head priest of Jozo-in, a sub-temple of Koyasan Kongobuji, Master Hara Shincho, descended from Koyasan with the vow to establish a “Koyasan in the land of Tosa.”
With the support of prominent figures such as Itagaki Taisuke, Koyaji was founded in 1881 as a “Koyasan Branch Temple” in Kochi, dedicated to the revival of Buddhism in the region. Though the temple was reduced to ashes in air raids during World War II, it was successfully rebuilt in the postwar period and continues to thrive today.
Once a year, on the last Sunday of March, the temple unveils its principal image, a statue of Kobo Daishi, which was bestowed by Koyasan Kongobu-ji. Additionally, on May 18th, the statue of Ichiyo Kannon, one of the Thirty-Three Emanations of Kannon, is displayed for public worship.
○ Message from the head priest
On May 18th each year, we hold a special ceremony unveiling the statue of Ichiyo Kannon, one of the Thirty-Three Emanations of Kannon. We warmly invite you to attend the ritual and experience a profound connection with Kannon.
○ Access
Address: 2-3-18 Honmachi, Kochi, Kochi, 780-0870, Japan
Phone Number: 088-872-2032
Large Buses: Permitted
Microbuses: Permitted