A History Spanning More Than 1,200 Years
According to tradition, Saimyoji was founded by the Buddhist monk Gyoki during the Tenpyo era (729–748) and was originally called Saikoji. In the early Edo period (1603–1868), the temple was moved to its present location and renamed Saimyoji, or Seimyoji, according to historical accounts.
A local legend connects the temple with Hojo Tokiyori, a Kamakura-period regent who later became a Buddhist monk and was known as Saimyoji Nyudo. He is said to have stayed at the temple, and this association is traditionally linked to its present name.
The temple’s main hall was destroyed by fire in 1879 and subsequently rebuilt. A new main hall was completed in 2024, continuing the temple’s long history of restoration and worship. Today, the main hall houses an image of Sho Kannon Bosatsu, while the Goma Hall enshrines a seated statue of Fudo Myoo, the Buddhist deity associated with wisdom and protection.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Stone-Pillar Gate and Main Gate
A stone-pillar entrance marks the approach to the temple grounds, followed by the main gate, which serves as one of the temple’s defining architectural features. Together, these entrances create a traditional setting for visitors arriving to pray or explore the historic precincts.
Main Hall
The main hall is the principal place of worship and enshrines Sho Kannon Bosatsu. Rebuilt in 2024, it represents the continuation of a religious tradition that has endured through centuries of change and repeated reconstruction.
Goma Hall
The Goma Hall houses a seated statue of Fudo Myoo. It is associated with goma rituals, a traditional Shingon Buddhist practice involving the ceremonial burning of wooden prayer sticks as an expression of devotion and a means of offering prayers.
Thirty-Three Kannon Hall
This hall contains Buddhist statues representing the Thirty-Three Kannon pilgrimage sites in the Saigoku region of western Japan. The statues were transferred here from the rear hall of the former main hall, preserving an important part of the temple’s religious heritage.
Treasury Hall
The Treasury Hall preserves Buddhist statues and other valuable objects, including cultural properties designated by Tokushima Prefecture and Important Cultural Properties of Japan. These collections offer visitors an opportunity to appreciate the artistic and historical legacy of the temple.
Memorial Tablet Hall and Bell Tower
Located east of the Goma Hall, the memorial tablet hall also serves as a columbarium. The temple grounds additionally include a bell tower, whose resonant bell adds to the peaceful atmosphere of this historic place of worship.
Cultural Treasures and Buddhist Art
Important Cultural Property: Standing Statue of Bishamonten
One of Saimyoji’s most significant treasures is a wooden standing statue of Bishamonten, the Buddhist guardian deity associated with protection and good fortune. Carved from a single block of Japanese cypress, the statue dates to the late Heian period (794–1185) and stands approximately 151.6 centimeters tall.
The figure depicts Tobatsu Bishamonten, a distinctive form of the deity shown with two demon-like figures at his feet. Its aged surface preserves the character of its historical craftsmanship. The statue was designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1911.
Tokushima Prefectural Cultural Properties
The temple also preserves a seated wooden statue of Amida Nyorai, the Buddha of Infinite Light and Life. Approximately 80 centimeters tall, it is made using a joined-wood construction technique and depicts the Buddha seated cross-legged with his hands forming the meditation mudra. The statue is believed to date from around the latter half of the 11th century and was designated a Tokushima Prefectural Cultural Property in 1977.
Another notable work is a painting known as the Jizo Raigo-zu, depicting Jizo Bosatsu welcoming the deceased. Dating to the Kamakura period (1185–1333), the painting measures approximately 81.6 centimeters high and 35.3 centimeters wide. It was designated a Tokushima Prefectural Cultural Property in 1975.
The Hagi Flowers and Temple Gardens
Saimyoji is particularly popular in autumn, when Japanese bush clover, known as hagi, comes into bloom. The flowers generally reach their peak around mid-September, covering the temple grounds with delicate blossoms and giving the temple its affectionate nickname, “Hagi Temple.”
The gardens provide a peaceful setting for a leisurely stroll, with seasonal flowers and natural scenery offering changing views throughout the year. For visitors who enjoy traditional Japanese temples and gardens, the autumn bloom is an especially rewarding time to visit.
Visitor Information
Admission and Visiting Hours
Admission to Saimyoji Temple is free. The usual visiting hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. During the autumn hagi flowering season, the temple can attract many visitors, so allowing plenty of time for your visit is recommended.
Getting to Saimyoji Temple
By Public Transportation
From Anabuki Station on JR Shikoku’s Tokushima Line, take a bus to the Senbaisho stop. From there, the temple is approximately a 20-minute walk.
By Car
The temple is approximately a 15-minute drive from Mima Interchange on the Tokushima Expressway. Nearby attractions include the historic Udatsu Streetscape in Wakimachi and the Old Nagaoka Family Residence, making it easy to combine a temple visit with further exploration of the area’s traditional architecture.
Nearby Attractions
Udatsu Historic Streetscape in Wakimachi
This preserved historic district is recognized as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Its merchant houses and distinctive architectural features offer a glimpse into the prosperous trading culture of the Edo period and make it a rewarding destination for a walking tour.
Old Nagaoka Family Residence
Built in 1735, the Old Nagaoka Family Residence is a traditional farmhouse designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The house has been relocated and reconstructed south of Mount Otaki, preserving an example of historic rural architecture in the region.
A Peaceful Retreat into Tokushima’s History and Faith
With its centuries-old religious traditions, treasured Buddhist statues, and gardens filled with hagi blossoms, Saimyoji Temple offers a quiet and rewarding cultural experience in Mima City. Visitors can explore its historic halls, appreciate works of Buddhist art, and enjoy the seasonal beauty of its grounds. For the most memorable experience, plan a visit around mid-September, when the temple’s famous bush clover flowers are usually at their best.