Kyo-o-zan Senjuin Unpenji Temple

Overview

Unpenji Temple, the 66th temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, is a Shingon sect temple of the Onjo-ha branch located in Ikeda-cho, Miyoshi City, Tokushima Prefecture. Situated near the summit of Unpenjiyama Mountain at an elevation of 927 meters, it boasts the highest altitude among the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. According to temple tradition, Unpenji Temple was founded in 789 (Enryaku 8) when Saeki Magao (later Kukai, Kobo Daishi), while searching for lumber to build Zentsuji Temple, ascended Unpenjiyama Mountain. He sensed the sacredness of the place and constructed a temple building. Later, Kukai performed the secret initiation rite in 807 (Daido 2), and in 818 (Kohin 9), he carved the principal image at the imperial command of Emperor Saga and performed the Seven Buddhas' service. Subsequently, Unpenji Temple was called "Shikoku Koya," serving as a training ground for monks, and during the Jogan period (857-877), it also became a temple under the imperial patronage of Emperor Seiwa. A fire in 1098 (Jōtoku 2) completely destroyed the temple complex. However, a hunter named Yonari, who had come to the area while chasing deer, was deeply moved by the majesty of Kannon Bodhisattva appearing in the trees and vowed to rebuild the temple. During the tenure of Gansei Shōnin, considered the restorer of the temple in the late Heian period, the existing principal image of Senju Kannon and Bishamonten were created. In the Kamakura period, it received protection from Sasaki Tsunetaka (Keiren), the governor of Awa Province, and the seven-hall temple complex was completed. Throughout its long history, Unpenji Temple has undergone many changes. However, it has continuously garnered the faith of people and played a significant role among the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Today, it is known as the highest-altitude temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Unpenji Temple is blessed with a rich natural environment, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. In summer, the hydrangeas blooming across the temple grounds captivate visitors. In autumn, the mountains are painted in red and yellow hues, making it a famous spot for autumn leaves. In winter, the snow-covered landscape offers a tranquil experience. Furthermore, Unpenji Temple enshrines many Buddhist statues and paintings, including the principal image of Senju Kannon Bosatsu. It's a place where you can refresh both your mind and body by experiencing history and nature.