Guide
Kanonji is a Shingon-shu Daikaku-ji temple located in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture, famously known as the 69th temple of the Shikoke 88-temple pilgrimage. Its mountain name is Shippozan. The temple enshrines Sho Kanon Bosatsu (Sacred Avalokitesvara) as its primary deity. The temple grounds are characterized by historical structures, including the Nio Gate, which is uniquely flanked by two stone monuments designated as Japan Heritage. The main deity is a 'secret Buddha' (hibutsu), and while it is usually hidden, special public unveilings (kaicho) have occurred in 2014 and 2023, drawing many worshippers. A major unveiling is expected to occur once every 10 years.
The history of this temple dates back to the Taiho era (701–704). Legend tells of a practitioner of the Hosso sect who, while training on Mt. Kotan, saw an old man playing a koto on a boat at sea. Upon discovering the man was Hachiman Daimyojin, the koto and boat were enshrined, leading to the history of the current Kotan Hachiman-gu. Later, the famous monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) became the 7th abbot. Kukai developed the temple complex by modeling it after the Kofuku-ji temple in Nara, arranging the Chugondo (Main Hall) with Sho Kanon Bosatsu, the Saijin-do with Yakushi Nyorai, and the Kaizan-do with Miroku Bosatsu. The name 'Shippozan Kanonji' is said to have originated from the practice of burying precious stones like lapis lazuli, coral, and agate in the construction of the pagoda. During the Muromachi period, the temple played a significant role in history, with figures such as Doson Daisei, a high-ranking monk and son of Ashikaga Takauji, serving as abbot for 45 years.
The temple grounds feature several distinct halls. At the entrance stands the Nio Gate, flanked by Japan Heritage stone monuments. As you walk up the stone steps, you will find the Aizen-do directly ahead, with the Daishi-do to the left and the Bell Tower to the right. The main hall (Chugondo) houses the secret Buddha, which is only visible during special unveiling periods. Other notable structures include the Yakushi-do (West Hall) housing a large seated Yakushi Nyorai, and the Kaizan-do (East Hall) housing Miroku Bosatsu. Visitors can also explore the Shingyo-den, dedicated to Dainichi Nyorai, and the Treasure Hall, which houses an Important Cultural Property: the Nehan Shakyamuni statue. Additionally, the path from the main hall to the Yakushi-do is lined with replicas of the 33 statues from the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, erected in 1840.
It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and stone carvings. While there is no specific peak season, it is a popular stop for those following the Ohenro pilgrimage route or tracing the history of Kukai. If you wish to see the secret Buddha, it is highly recommended to check official information in advance, as special unveilings are rare and scheduled events.
Visitors can experience the essence of the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage here. Through the various Buddhist statues—including Sho Kanon Bosatsu, Aizen Myoo, Yakushi Nyorai, and Miroku Bosatsu—and the stone replicas of the Saigoku pilgrimage, you can deeply connect with Japanese Buddhist culture. For a break, the 'Goto-an' space offers a place to rest and purchase pilgrimage-related goods.
Nearby attractions include the Zenigata Sunaba (Zenigata Sand Art) and the famous Koya Shrine, known for its 'Sky Torii.' The temple is also part of a continuous pilgrimage flow, situated near the 68th temple, Shokei-in, and leading toward the 70th temple, Honzan-ji.