Sect: Koyasan Shingon Buddhism
Principal Deity: Amida Nyorai (Amitābha Buddha)
Founded: Unknown
Goeika (Sacred Chant): “How precious it is, once in a lifetime, to visit Saifuku-ji, Where chestnut trees bear fruit three times a year.“
Emanation Form: Hamaguri Kannon
Hamaguri Kannon is depicted sitting atop a clam shell, with her hands clasped together inside her robe. According to legend, during the reign of Emperor Wenzong of Tang China, he attempted to eat a clam but was unable to open its shell. He burned incense and prayed, and miraculously, the shell opened to reveal the form of Kannon. This was seen as a manifestation of his deep faith and devotion.
○ History & Origins
Saifukuji is said to be one of the sites where Kukai (Kobo Daishi) temporarily stayed during his establishment of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The temple is also the origin of the famous “Sandoguri” (Three-Time Chestnuts of Shikoku).
According to tradition, while Kukai was traveling, he saw a child holding a chestnut and asked, “May I have one?” The child smiled and happily offered him one. Kukai, moved by the child’s innocence, said, “What a pure and kind-hearted child. Would it not be better if this tree bore fruit twice a year instead of once? Or even three times?” The children excitedly responded that they would love for the tree to bear fruit three times a year. Kūkai smiled and blessed the tree, saying, “From this day forward, this tree shall bear fruit three times a year.”
Since then, chestnut trees within an eight-cho (about 870 meters) radius of the temple have continued to bear fruit three times a year.
Saifukuji is also famous as a temple of lotus flowers, and from July to August, white and pink lotus blossoms bloom beautifully, delighting visitors.
○ Message from the head priest
Goeika (Sacred Hymns)
- With a smiling and gentle heart, embodying the virtue of compassion, the blossoms of kindness bloom with the radiance of a Bodhisattva’s smile.
- At Saifukuji, those who recite Kannon’s name forget their aging, just like the three-time chestnut trees bearing fruit again and again.
○ Access
Address: 954-2 Ueno, Doi, Shikokuchuo, Ehime, 799-0721, Japan
Phone Number: 0896-74-6104
Large Buses: Not permitted
Microbuses: Permitted