Guida
Sanuki Kokubunji, located in Kagawa Prefecture, is a highly significant historical temple designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan. As one of the key locations in the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage (Shikoku Henro), it serves as a vital center for experiencing Japanese Buddhist culture and history. The temple grounds are home to remarkable architectural legacies, such as the main hall, which was constructed using the original foundation stones from the era of its founding. Visitors can also marvel at the bronze bell, an Important Cultural Property dating back to the early Heian period. It is a place where one can truly feel the profound depth of history and the slow, peaceful passage of time.
The history of this temple is exceptionally ancient, rooted in the era of Emperor Shozen. The site contains traces of a seven-story pagoda from the time of its founding and is a place of great spiritual value, once believed to house the Kinmitsu Saiou-kyo sutra. Many of the structures and cultural assets, including the main hall designated in the Meiji era, continue to pass down the spiritual traditions that have supported Japanese culture for centuries. Today, the temple plays a dual role: preserving these precious historical remains while remaining an active site for pilgrims.
The centerpiece of the temple is the main hall, which uniquely utilizes the foundation stones of the original lecture hall from the Nara period. The principal deity, the Standing Thousand-Armed Kannon (an Important Cultural Property), is a masterpiece from the late Heian period. As you walk through the Nio-mon Gate, you will follow a path lined with stone statues. To your left lies the Enma-do, and to your right is the bell tower, which houses the oldest bell in Shikoku. Another significant highlight is the Daishi-do (the hall for worshiping Kobo Daishi) and the recently opened exhibition of the restored seated statue of Dainichi Nyorai, which began public viewing in October 2025.
It is highly recommended to visit during daylight hours, as the temple gates close at 4:30 PM. The grounds are well-maintained, making it pleasant to wander among the historical buildings and stone statues under the sunlight. Notably, the rare public viewing of the main deity in the main hall occurs only once every 60 years, making a visit during such a period an extraordinary opportunity.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional Japanese pilgrimage culture. The grounds feature a "Mini Shikoku 88 Temple" layout with stone Buddhas, allowing you to experience the essence of the pilgrimage in a shorter time. You can also observe ancient Japanese architecture and Buddhist art while exploring the ruins. Near the Daishi-do, you may find shops selling pilgrimage supplies, providing a closer look at the actual lifestyle of the Henro pilgrims.
The temple grounds encompass various archaeological areas, including the remains of monk quarters, bell towers, and post-hole buildings. These sites are essential for understanding the structure and lifestyle of ancient Japanese temples. The surrounding area is also characterized by beautiful historical landscapes and natural scenery, perfect for a contemplative walk.
When visiting, please keep the following in mind: