Sect: Omuro School of Shingon Buddhism
Principal Deity: Dainichi Nyorai (Vairocana Buddha)
Founded: Unknown
Goeika (Sacred Chant): “Bowing in reverence in Kannon’s garden, I prostrate myself before the ancient pine, Where even the moon graces its presence.“
Emanation Form: Tarason Kannon
Tarason Kannon is depicted standing on a cloud, with the right hand tucked under the robe at chest level and the left hand placed just below. “Tara” means eye, pupil, and light, and in Buddhist tradition, it represents the mother of salvation. She is believed to guide beings to enlightenment with her gentle, maternal gaze, leading them away from the suffering of worldly desires.
○ History & Origins
The temple’s Eleven-Faced Kannon is said to have originated in the year 804, when Kukai (Kobo Daishi) was preparing for his journey to Tang China. While waiting for favorable winds at the shore of Tamatsu (about a five-minute drive east of the temple), Kukai was cared for by local devotees who admired his virtue. Before departing, he carved a sacred image of Kannon with his own hands, enshrined it in a small thatched hut on a nearby hill, and left it as a blessing for those who had supported him.
Over time, the temple was relocated to a vast site in Shikenmachi and became known as Jujisan Seijokoin, a grand spiritual center. However, it was burned down in the Tensho War (around 1580). The principal deity was temporarily housed in a private residence in Shikenmachi until it was moved to its present location in 1631 (Kan’ei 8).
The 33 Buddhist statues enshrined alongside the main deity today represent the deities of the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage and are believed to have been crafted by the renowned sculptor An’ami. In 1634 (Kan’ei 11), the temple was renamed Hokkaizan Horenji. According to temple records, the mountain name (Hokkaizan) was chosen due to its deep connection to prayers offered to the Big Dipper, symbolizing protection from misfortune and the granting of good fortune.
○ Message from the head priest
During the Edo period, Horenji was located near the Saijo Domain’s military headquarters (now Saijo High School) and was a central site for Kannon devotion in the region. We warmly welcome you to visit and offer your prayers.
○ Access
Address: 543 Tsuitachi, Saijo, Ehime, 793-0027, Japan
Phone Number: 0897-55-3030
Large Buses: Not permitted
Microbuses: Permitted
Official Website