The Legend of Yakushi Nyorai and Protection from Lightning
According to temple tradition, Chofuku-ji traces its origins to the Tenpyō era (729–749), during the Nara period. The Buddhist monk Gyōki was traveling through the region when he was caught in a thunderstorm and sought shelter at a local house. The elderly woman who lived there was extremely frightened of thunder.
To comfort her, Gyōki is said to have carved an image of Yakushi Nyorai, known here as the Buddha of Healing who protects people from the dangers of lightning. He also enshrined attendant deities, including Fudō Myōō, Tamonten, the Sun and Moon Bodhisattvas, and the Twelve Heavenly Generals. This act is traditionally regarded as the beginning of Chofuku-ji.
Gyōki is also said to have carved an image of the Sacred Kannon Bodhisattva for Ōtsuki Daimyōjin, whose shrine is now known as Shisho Shrine. Chofuku-ji subsequently served as the associated Buddhist temple for this shrine, reflecting the historical relationship between Buddhism and local Shinto worship in Japan.
Religious Traditions and Sacred Verses
The mantra associated with the temple’s principal image is traditionally recited as a prayer to Yakushi Nyorai. Its Japanese pronunciation is: “On korokoro sendari matougi sowaka.” Visitors interested in Buddhist worship may appreciate learning about this traditional chant and the healing blessings associated with the Buddha.
The temple’s traditional pilgrimage poem also refers to protection from lightning and the sacred light of Jōruri. These words preserve the legend at the heart of Chofuku-ji’s identity, connecting its religious practices with the story of the frightened woman and Gyōki’s compassionate response.
A Temple Shaped by History
Over the centuries, Chofuku-ji is said to have moved several times as its fortunes changed. During the Tenshō era (1573–1593), the temple was relocated to its present site and rebuilt under the direction of Ōnishi Kaku-yō, the lord of Shiroji Castle.
During the Edo period, the temple was sometimes known as Ōtsuki-ji. Historical records, including the *Awa-shi*, refer to the institution by both names, Ōtsuki-ji and Chofuku-ji. These variations reflect the temple’s long history and its close ties to the surrounding community.
The Ōtsuki Ginkgo Tree: A Natural Treasure
One of Chofuku-ji’s most distinctive attractions stands near the temple gate: a ginkgo tree estimated to be approximately 400 years old. Known as the Ohatsuki Ginkgo, it is traditionally said to have been planted when Ōnishi Kaku-yō moved the temple during the Tenshō era.
The tree is unusual because its leaves can bear a seed or fruit at the base of the leaf blade, near the end of the leaf stalk. Occasionally, two may develop on a single leaf. It is also known as the Trumpet Ginkgo because some of its leaves have a distinctive trumpet-like shape.
Recognizing its botanical rarity and historical significance, Tokushima Prefecture designated the tree a Natural Monument on January 29, 1954. It remains a special point of interest for worshippers and visitors, offering a tangible connection between the temple’s history and the natural world.
An Important Stop on Shikoku’s Pilgrimage Routes
Inner Sanctuary of Unpen-ji
Chofuku-ji is known as the inner sanctuary of Unpen-ji, the 66th temple on the Shikoku Eighty-Eight Temple pilgrimage. For pilgrims following this historic route, it provides an additional place of worship connected with the traditions of Unpen-ji.
The stated distance from Unpen-ji to Chofuku-ji is approximately 27.0 km, while the distance onward to Daikō-ji, the 67th temple, is approximately 43.8 km. Pilgrims planning a visit should consider these distances when organizing their route through the mountainous region.
New Shikoku Mandala Sacred Sites Pilgrimage
Chofuku-ji is the 63rd temple on the New Shikoku Mandala Sacred Sites pilgrimage. It follows Jisei-in, the 62nd temple, and precedes Renge-ji, the 64th temple. This pilgrimage offers another way to discover Shikoku’s Buddhist heritage through a network of temples spread across the island.
Fukurokuju and the Seven Lucky Gods of Awa
Chofuku-ji also participates in the pilgrimage to the Seven Lucky Gods of the Awa Hidden Iya Valley and Oboke region, enshrining Fukurokuju, a deity associated with longevity, prosperity, and good fortune. Visitors may combine their visit with Anraku-ji, which enshrines Benzaiten, and Jisei-in, where Jurōjin is worshipped.
Together, these sacred sites form part of a regional tradition that brings local religious history and the symbolism of the Seven Lucky Gods into the landscapes of Tokushima.
Visiting Chofuku-ji Temple
Chofuku-ji is located in the mountainous area of Miyoshi City. Although it is associated with established pilgrimage routes, visitors should plan their journey carefully because travel through this part of Tokushima can involve winding mountain roads and considerable distances between destinations.
For those exploring the region’s temples, Chofuku-ji can be incorporated into an itinerary that includes Jisei-in and Renge-ji, as well as other sites connected with the Shikoku pilgrimage traditions. The historic temple, its lightning-protection legend, and the rare Ohatsuki Ginkgo make it a rewarding destination for travelers interested in Japanese Buddhism, local folklore, and cultural heritage.
Experience the Spiritual Heritage of Miyoshi
Chofuku-ji is more than a historic Buddhist temple. Its traditions preserve the story of Gyōki’s compassion, its principal image represents prayers for healing and protection, and its role in several pilgrimage networks connects it with the wider spiritual landscape of Shikoku.
A visit also offers the chance to see the remarkable Ohatsuki Ginkgo, a prefecturally designated Natural Monument with a history closely linked to the temple. For travelers exploring the Oboke, Koboke, and Iya Valley area, Chofuku-ji provides a meaningful glimpse into the region’s enduring relationship between faith, legend, and nature.