Sect: Koyasan Shingon Buddhism
Principal Deity: Kobo Daishi
Founded: 1883
Goeika (Sacred Chant): “The pure water of the great teachings from Mount Koya Shall flow through generations, never ceasing.“
Emanation Form: Haego Kannon
Haego Kannon is depicted sitting bravely on a rock. It is said that chanting the name of this Kannon once will bring protection to oneself, chanting twice will protect one’s spouse, and chanting three times will safeguard one’s entire family. Additionally, this Kannon is believed to protect homes and communities from illness and disasters.
○ History & Origins
In March 1883, the revered image of Kobo Daishi was enshrined at this temple, which was originally established as a branch office of Koyasan’s main temple. At that time, it was located along the coastline northeast of its current site. Later, with donations from devoted followers, the temple was relocated to its present location, and over a period of about ten years, various halls were constructed.
In August 1921, the temple was officially elevated to the status of Imabari Betsuin of Koyasan’s main temple, Kongobu-ji. In addition to serving as a center for devotion to Kobo Daishi, the temple also dedicated itself to religious education for young children. It was a bustling place of worship, welcoming many visitors. However, on August 6, 1945, during a major air raid, the entire temple, including the main hall, was completely destroyed by fire.
Following the war, with the support of its followers, the temple received and relocated the former Sakamoto-bo Main Hall from Kamobe Village (now about a 15-minute drive southwest from the current location) in 1949, establishing it as a temporary main hall and laying the foundation for the temple’s revival. Since then, the bell tower gate, various temple halls, priests’ quarters, and a kindergarten have been restored, leading to the present-day temple complex.
○ Message from the head priest
There is a pilgrimage path at the temple where visitors can symbolically step on the sacred sand of the Shikoku Pilgrimage while worshiping Kannon. Feel free to stop by and experience it.
○ Access
Address: 2-4-14 Bekku, Imabari, Ehime, 794-0026, Japan
Phone Number: 0898-31-3840
Large Buses: Permitted
Microbuses: Permitted