Chohuku-ji Temple

Overview

Chohuku-ji Temple is a Shingon sect temple located in Magami, Mimasaka City, Okayama Prefecture. Its mountain name is Makiyama, and its principal image is an Eleven-faced Kannon. According to temple tradition, it was founded in 757 AD (Tenpyo Hoji era) by Ganjin at the imperial command of Empress Koken. Later, in 1285 AD (弘安 8), it was revived as a Tendai sect temple by Engen. During its heyday, it comprised 65 sub-temples. It completely transitioned to the Shingon sect during the Meiji period (1390-1393). In the early Edo period, it consisted of 40 sub-temples, reduced to four by the Meiji Restoration. A fire in February 1876 (Meiji 9) destroyed all but the inner sanctuary, leaving the present-day Chohuku-ji Temple. The temple's main attraction is its three-storied pagoda, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The 22.07m-high pagoda, according to a dated inscription, was built in 1285 AD (弘安 8) by the master carpenter Fujiwara Kunoue no Jo. It has undergone several repairs since then. As the oldest wooden structure in Okayama Prefecture, its historical value is exceptionally high, deeply moving all who visit. Originally located on a mountaintop, it was relocated to its present location at the foot of the mountain in 1928 (Showa 3). Within the serene grounds, in addition to the pagoda, numerous precious cultural assets are preserved, including a wooden statue of the standing Eleven-faced Kannon Bosatsu and a silk painting of Fudo Myoo. The Makiyama Jinja Shrine (Sanno Gongen-do) and the Konpira Daigongen Shrine have also been dismantled and relocated to the present site, preserving the atmosphere of the past. Chohuku-ji Temple is a precious place where you can experience history and culture. Recommended for those who want to spend time peacefully in a tranquil setting.