Jimoku-ji Temple

Overview

Jimoku-ji Temple is a Shingon sect temple of the Chizan school located in Ama City, Aichi Prefecture. Commonly known as "Jimokuji Kannon," it enshrines a statue of Sho Kannon (the Bodhisattva of Compassion). It's also the fifth temple on the Tokai Thirty-Six Fudo Myoo Pilgrimage, the sixteenth temple on the Owari Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, and one of the four Kannon temples of Owari. Its history stretches back to 597 AD, with its founding attributed to Empress Suiko's reign. According to tradition, Jimoku Ryomaro, a fisherman from a powerful Ise Province clan, found a Kannon statue in his net in the sea near this site. He enshrined it in a temple built on the nearby beach. This Kannon statue is believed to be one of three Buddha statues (Sho Kannon being one) thrown into the sea in 585 AD (Mintoku 14) by Mombe Moriya and Nakatomi Katsuumi. The remaining two statues—Amida Nyorai (Amitabha Buddha) and Seishi Bosatsu (Bodhisattva of Wisdom)—are said to reside in Zenko-ji Temple and Anraku-ji Temple (within the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine), respectively. The temple grounds boast several National Treasures, including the South Gate, the three-storied pagoda, and the East Gate, offering a profound sense of history and culture. The South Gate was built in 1196 AD (Kenkyu 7) under the direction of Kajiwara Kagesue, acting on orders from Minamoto no Yoritomo. The three-storied pagoda, 25 meters tall, was rebuilt in 1627 AD (Kanei 4). The East Gate was rebuilt in 1634 AD (Kanei 11). Jimoku-ji Temple also delights visitors with its abundant natural beauty, boasting a vibrant array of seasonal flowers. Enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn foliage in fall—beautiful scenery throughout the year. Jimoku-ji Temple is a highly recommended sightseeing spot where you can experience both history and nature. Be sure to visit!