Daihoji Temple

Overview

Daihoji Temple is a Shingon sect temple located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. Tradition holds that it was founded in 701 AD, during the Taiho era of the Asuka period. According to temple records, it was established by Tamaoki, a local magnate and governor of Iyo Province (Ochi clan). The temple's name originates from this founding year. During the Edo period, it served as a prayer hall for successive Matsuyama feudal lords, with the main hall undergoing repairs in 1685 under the fourth lord, Matsudaira Sadanao. The main highlight of Daihoji Temple is its main hall, designated as a National Treasure. It's the oldest wooden building in Ehime Prefecture, inheriting the architectural style of Amitabha halls built in the late Heian period. The single-storied hall features a hipped roof, with dimensions of 3 ken (bay) in width and 4 ken in length, covered with Japanese roof tiles. Both width and depth are approximately 9 meters, forming a nearly square structure with a unique layout: 3 ken in the front and back and 4 ken on the sides. The interior is divided into an inner sanctum (naijin) in the central bay and an outer sanctum (gaijin) surrounding it, reflecting the Amitabha hall style of the late Heian period. All pillars are cylindrical, and the brackets are simple, using only boat-shaped brackets on the corner pillars, preserving the temple's ancient architectural style. Inside the main hall, you'll find the seated statue of Amitabha Tathagata and the seated statue of Shaka Nyorai, both designated as National Important Cultural Properties. The Amitabha Tathagata statue, 68.5 cm high and carved from a single piece of wood, is believed to be from the early Heian period. The Shaka Nyorai statue, 83.9 cm high and also carved from a single piece of wood, is similarly believed to be from the early Heian period. These Buddhist statues are invaluable cultural assets, reflecting Daihoji Temple's long history and rich culture. Beyond the main hall, Daihoji Temple offers numerous other attractions. The kuri (temple kitchen), located to the left of the main hall, is an Edo-period structure registered as a tangible cultural property. The temple grounds also feature other historical buildings such as a bell tower, a mountain gate, a Yakushi-do hall, and a three-storied pagoda. Daihoji Temple is a place rich in history, culture, and nature. Strolling through the serene grounds, admiring the National Treasure main hall and precious Buddhist statues, offers a truly refreshing experience. If you visit Matsuyama, be sure to make a visit.