Guida
Kanonji Temple, located in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture, is a significant temple of the Shingon Daikaku-ji school and serves as the 69th station of the famous Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Its mountain name is Shippozan. The temple enshrines the Sacred Kannon Bodhisattva as its main deity. The grounds are filled with historical charm, most notably the Nio Mon gate, which is flanked by two unique stone monuments designated as Japan Heritage. One of the most extraordinary experiences here is the unveiling of the 'Hidden Buddha' (Hibutsu), an event that occurs only once every ten years, drawing many pilgrims and visitors.
The history of this temple dates back to the Taiho era (701–704 AD). Legend tells of a practitioner named Nissho who witnessed an old man playing a koto on a boat at sea, an event that eventually led to the establishment of the local Kotohiki Hachiman Shrine. Later, the great monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) became the 7th resident priest, profoundly shaping the temple's spiritual landscape. Following the architectural style of Kofuku-ji in Nara, Kukai organized the temple into several halls, including the Chukin-do (Main Hall) for the Sacred Kannon, the Sai-chin-do for Yakushi Nyorai, and the To-chin-do for Miroku Bosatsu. The name 'Shippozan' (Seven Treasures Mountain) is said to have originated from the practice of burying precious stones like lapis lazuli, coral, and agate within a pagoda built on this site.
The temple grounds feature several significant structures. At the entrance stands the Nio Mon gate, a Japan Heritage site. As you walk up the stone steps, you will find the Aizen-do, the Daishi-do, and the Bell Tower. The Main Hall (Chukin-do) houses the sacred hidden Buddha, which is only visible during special unveiling ceremonies. Other notable sites include the Yakushi-do (Medicine Buddha Hall) and the Kaizan-do (Miroku Bosatsu Hall). Visitors can also explore the Treasure Hall, which houses the important cultural property, the Nehan Shakyamuni Buddha statue. Along the path from the Main Hall to the Yakushi-do, you can see the replicas of the Saigoku 33 Kannon stone statues, erected in 1840.
It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details of the stone statues and temple architecture. While there is no specific peak season, it is a vital stop for those performing the Shikoku pilgrimage. If you wish to witness the rare unveiling of the Hidden Buddha, it is highly recommended to check official announcements in advance, as these events are infrequent and special.
Visitors can experience the essence of the Ohenro (pilgrimage) culture. Beyond the spiritual atmosphere, you can explore the diverse Buddhist art, including various Bodhisattvas and the stone Buddha replicas. For a moment of relaxation, the 'Gotoh-an' cafe located within the temple grounds offers a peaceful space to rest and provides various pilgrimage-related goods and souvenirs.
The area around Kanonji Temple is rich in culture. Nearby, you can visit the famous Zenigata Sunaba (sand art) or the Takaya Shrine, known as the 'Torii in the Sky.' The temple is also part of a continuous pilgrimage route that connects with the 68th temple, Koei-in, and the 70th temple, Honzan-ji.