Not to Be Confused with Kannonji Temple in Kagawa
One interesting feature of the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage is that another temple with the same written name, 観音寺, stands in Kagawa Prefecture. However, the two temples are distinguished by their Japanese pronunciations and pilgrimage numbers. The temple in Tokushima is called Kannonji, while the temple in Kagawa is pronounced Kannonji with a different reading in Japanese, commonly romanized as Kannōnji, and is pilgrimage temple number 69.
The city in Kagawa where the latter temple is located is also written 観音寺市, but its name is pronounced Kan’onji. This similarity in written names, combined with differences in pronunciation and location, makes it worth checking which temple you intend to visit when planning a pilgrimage.
The History of Kannonji Temple
Origins in the Nara Period
The temple’s traditional history dates back to the reign of Emperor Shōmu (701–756), when the emperor ordered the establishment of provincial temples across Japan. According to temple tradition, Kannonji was founded by the Buddhist priest Gyōki as a place of prayer under imperial patronage.
In 816, during the Kōnin era, the revered monk Kōbō Daishi, also known as Kūkai, is said to have visited the temple and carved the principal image of Senju Kannon. Images of Fudō Myōō and Bishamonten were enshrined alongside it. The temple is believed to have taken its present name at this time.
Destruction and Restoration
During the Tenshō era (1573–1592), Kannonji was destroyed by fire amid the military campaigns associated with Chōsokabe Motochika, a powerful warlord who sought to expand his control over Shikoku.
The temple was rebuilt in 1659 with the support of Hachisuka Mitsutaka, lord of the Awa Domain, under the direction of the Buddhist priest Yuō. Following its restoration, Kannonji once again became an important center of religious devotion in the region, continuing its role as a pilgrimage destination to the present day.
Explore the Temple Grounds
Kannonji’s compact grounds contain several Buddhist halls, statues, and places of worship. Passing through the entrance gate, visitors can experience the quiet and reverent atmosphere of a traditional Japanese temple while discovering the objects of faith that have been cherished here for generations.
Sanmon Gate
The main gate, or sanmon, is an impressive two-story structure built in the traditional Japanese architectural style known as wayō. Its substantial appearance gives the relatively small temple grounds a sense of dignity and solemnity. Walking through the gate marks the transition from the surrounding town into the temple’s peaceful religious space.
Main Hall
The main hall stands at the far end of the grounds and enshrines Senju Kannon, the Thousand-Armed Bodhisattva of Compassion. Pilgrims and other visitors come here to offer prayers and pay their respects to the principal deity.
In front of the hall are a Mizuko Jizō statue, dedicated to the souls of deceased children and unborn babies, a Buddhist footprint stone, and a statue of Kōbō Daishi depicted as an ascetic pilgrim. These objects offer visitors additional opportunities for quiet reflection and prayer.
Daishi Hall
The Daishi Hall, dedicated to Kōbō Daishi, stands to the right in front of the main hall. Around February 20 each year, a special religious observance known as Kesshū no Hi is held, during which a special opening of the hall takes place. The occasion attracts worshippers who gather to honor the monk and participate in the temple’s traditions.
Kōshin Hall and Jizō Statues
Other objects of worship around the grounds include Kōshin Hall, the Yonaki Jizō statue, and additional Mizuko Jizō figures. Yonaki Jizō is traditionally believed to help soothe children who cry frequently at night, and families visit to pray for their children’s well-being and peaceful sleep.
Hachiman Sōsha Ryō Shrine
To the right of the main hall stands Hachiman Sōsha Ryō Shrine, which enshrines two deities together: Hachiman Daijingū, also known as Kokufu Hachiman, and Sōsha Ōmikami, associated with the former Awa Provincial Shrine.
The shrine was originally associated with a much larger sacred site in Sōshaga-hara, approximately 500 meters south of the temple. It was later relocated to the temple grounds, where it remains part of the area’s religious heritage.
Temple Treasures and Pilgrimage Traditions
Kannonji Engi
The Kannonji Engi is a historical scroll recording the temple’s origins and history. Such temple records preserve traditions passed down through generations and provide insight into the religious and cultural background of the site.
Kōmyō Shingon Seal
One of the temple’s distinctive items is the Kōmyō Shingon inban, a seal said to bear an inscription in the handwriting of Kōbō Daishi. Pilgrims may have the seal stamped on both collars of their traditional white pilgrimage garments, known as byakue.
The service is listed at ¥2,000. Availability may depend on whether the staff member responsible for the temple office is present, and the service may not be offered during particularly busy periods or when large pilgrimage groups arrive.
Principal Deity Mantra
The mantra associated with Senju Kannon is traditionally recited as an act of devotion:
“On bazara tarama kiriku.”
Pilgrimage Verse
The temple’s traditional pilgrimage verse expresses the hope that Kannon will guide worshippers toward the Pure Land of Amida Buddha in the Western Paradise:
“May you guide me without fail, O Kannonji, to the Pure Land of Amida in the Western Paradise.”
How to Get to Kannonji Temple
By Train
Take the JR Tokushima Line to Fuchū Station. Kannonji Temple is approximately 1.2 kilometers from the station, making it accessible on foot.
By Bus
Tokushima Bus operates several routes serving the area, including the Kamojima Line, the Kamiyama Line via Ishii, the Ishii–Takahara Line, and the Ishii–Kamiita Line. Get off at Kannonji-kita bus stop, then walk approximately 400 meters to the temple.
By Car
The temple is approximately 300 meters from the Kōfu-chō Kannonji intersection on National Route 192. From the Tokushima Expressway, it is about 6.8 kilometers from Aizumi Interchange. From the Takamatsu Expressway, Itano Interchange is approximately 10 kilometers away.
Parking
Free parking for approximately five cars is available at the temple. As spaces are limited, visitors planning to arrive during busy pilgrimage seasons or special religious events are advised to arrive early.
A Meaningful Stop on the Shikoku Pilgrimage
Kannonji Temple offers a peaceful opportunity to experience the living Buddhist traditions of Tokushima. Its history, traditional architecture, devotional statues, and distinctive pilgrimage customs make it more than simply a stop along the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage.
Whether you are following the full pilgrimage route or exploring Tokushima’s cultural heritage, take time to visit the main hall, discover the smaller places of worship around the grounds, and appreciate the atmosphere of this historic temple dedicated to compassion and spiritual guidance.