Guida
Kihata-ji is a temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect located in Awa City, Tokushima Prefecture. It is renowned as the 10th station of the sacred Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Situated on the slopes of Mount Kihata at an altitude of 155 meters, the temple grounds are dotted with historic structures. Most notably, the 'Kihata-ji Grand Pagoda,' a National Important Cultural Property, is a stunning double-story pagoda with a unique structure that commands respect from all who visit. The temple is also deeply connected to a moving legend involving Kobo Daishi (Kukai) and a weaver maiden, making it not just a sightseeing spot, but a sacred place for spiritual peace.
The history of this temple is intimately tied to the legend of Kobo Daishi and a humble weaver maiden. According to legend, while Kobo Daishi was traveling, he sought cloth to repair his worn monk's robes, and the maiden selflessly offered her fabric. Moved by her devotion, Kobo Daishi granted her a spiritual wish, and she eventually achieved enlightenment, transforming into the Thousand-Armed Kannon. This has made Kihata-ji known as a temple where women can achieve spiritual enlightenment, and it has long been a popular destination for female pilgrims. The temple also holds historical significance through its grand pagoda, which is said to have been established by Toyotomi Hideyori to honor his father, Hideyoshi.
There are many structures of immense historical value at Kihata-ji. The most iconic is the 'Kihata-ji Grand Pagoda.' Originally moved from the Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine area in Osaka during the Meiji era, it features a rare structure where the space between the first and second stories is square. Another essential sight is the 'Hatakiri Kannon' statue, which symbolizes the legend of the weaver maiden. The statue, holding scissors in its right hand and long cloth in its left, vividly tells the story of the site. Additionally, the climb up the 333 stone steps (known as the Nyaku-zaka slopes) leading to the main hall provides a profound sense of solemnity and accomplishment.
Kihata-ji reveals different faces throughout the seasons. You can experience the spiritual fervor during seasonal ceremonies such as the Spring Grand Service (around March 21) and the Autumn Grand Service (around September 23), or the Hachidai Ryuo-gu Autumn Festival (3rd Saturday of October). From the vantage point of the Grand Pagoda, visitors can enjoy a majestic view of the Yoshino River flowing below and the sweeping Shikoku Mountain Range. Visiting during the day allows you to enjoy the silhouette of the pagoda against a blue sky, while the evening offers a tranquil, meditative atmosphere. Attending during seasonal festivals provides a deeper cultural experience.
Visitors can experience the living culture of the Shikoku Henro (pilgrimage). You can receive a 'Nokyo' (temple stamp) at the reception desk as a proof of your pilgrimage. Another unique tradition is 'Kyogi Nagashi,' where wooden slips containing names of ancestors are offered with water during the spring and autumn equinoxes. This ritual preserves the spirit of ancestral veneration. The process of climbing the stone steps is itself a meditative experience, allowing you to reflect and refresh your spirit.
The area around Kihata-ji retains a charming, historical atmosphere. The 'Monzen-machi' (temple town) at the foot of the mountain features shops selling pilgrimage supplies, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the Henro. Additionally, several other stations of the Awa Saigoku 33 Kannon pilgrimage are within driving distance, making it easy to plan a route that combines history, nature, and local culture through driving or hiking.
