Sect: Koyasan Shingon Buddhism
Principal Deity: Jizo Bodhisattva
Founded: 1725
Goeika (Pilgrimage Hymn): “Kanzeon, who dispels the hardships of all people, The first temple is Shokoji.”
Manifestation (Okeishin): Willow-Branch Kannon (Yangliu Guanyin)
This form of Kannon holds a willow branch in the right hand while placing the left palm upward in front of the chest. It is also known as “Yakuo Kannon” (King of Medicine Kannon) and is sometimes depicted holding a medicine bottle in the left hand. The willow branch is waved to dispel all illnesses, protecting and relieving people from suffering caused by sickness.
○ History & Origins
Shokoji Temple was founded through the efforts of a local benefactor, Shohachi Okada, who gathered donations to establish it. According to Okada family lore, one night, a traveling monk appeared in Shohachi’s dream and instructed him to build a temple for the benefit of the world. The very next day, the same monk visited the Okada family, creating a profound karmic connection that led to the temple’s construction.
Over time, the temple underwent six expansions and renovations, and in 1990 (Heisei 2), a modern-style main hall was completed with the support of temple parishioners. The exterior design was inspired by the upper level of the Great Buddha Hall at Todaiji Temple, while the hanging lanterns under the eaves are modeled after those in the Miedo Hall of Mount Koya. The golden shibi (decorative ridge-end tiles) on both ends of the roof gleam brilliantly, showcasing an architectural aesthetic reminiscent of the Tenpyo period (early 8th century).
○ Message from the head priest
The road in front of the temple is narrow and one-way, which may make it difficult to find. Please feel free to call us, and we will be happy to guide you. During the day, I am often at the adjacent nursery school, so please don’t hesitate to call out to me.
○ Access
Address: 144 Iwasaki, Saita, Muya, Naruto, Tokushima 772-0002, Japan
Phone number: 088-686-4591
Large Buses: Not permitted
Microbuses: Permitted