🗺️ Shōgaku-in (Kagawa Prefecture)

🎨 Attraction Gallery

📝 Introduction

The head temple of the Shingon Esoteric Buddhism Daigo sect. Visitors can explore precious buildings such as the Kannon Hall, constructed by salt-saturated carpenters, in this temple with a history of 1,300 years.

📖 Details

Seikaku-in was established in 724, making it approximately 1300 years old. It is affiliated with the Shingon sect's Daigo branch and is also known as "Yamadera." It is the birthplace of the founder of Daigo-ji, Master Rigen Shobo. With its long history, Seikaku-in is even older than Nara's Todai-ji. It is said that the heads of various temples in the Shiohama Islands were once monks who practiced here. Although the temple is located on a remote island, it is grand in scale. The main deities, the statues of Kannon Bodhisattva, Fudo Myo-o, and Bishamonten, were built during the Kamakura period and have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The opening ceremony for these statues is held only once every 33 years. Scattered throughout the temple grounds are the Niomon Gate, Hachinofune, and the cliff-carved statue of Fudo Myo-o on the back mountain. The vast and tranquil mountain temple is perfect for leisurely strolls. Visitors can also see the Kannon Hall built by the famous Shiohama carpenter and the dragon and tiger carvings on the temple gate. By visiting these precious buildings, one can catch a glimpse of the prosperity and advanced architectural techniques of that time. During the "YAMADERA Summer Festival," held on the third Sunday of July each year, the temple conducts a ritual called "Shaidō Goma." Many pilgrims from outside the island come specifically to pay their respects, making the temple quite lively.

⭐ Highlights

The famous ancient temple "Yamadera" was established between 724 and 729 AD. Visitors can learn about the superb architectural skills of craftsmen at that time by exploring buildings such as the Kannon Hall. The main deities, including the Holy Kannon Bodhisattva and two other statues, have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, and the opening ceremony is held only once every 33 years. The "YAMADERA Summer Festival" takes place on the third Sunday of July each year, attracting many pilgrims from outside the region who come specifically to pay their respects.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there a foreign language introduction signboard or manual? (If so, please let me know which languages are available.)

A: There are no foreign language brochures or signs, but there are staff members who can assist in French. Please contact us in advance if necessary.

Q: Do you have a御朱印 (Goshuin)?

A: Yes, there are four types. 1. Shōgakuin Gojūin 2. The 30th Gojūin of the Shikoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage 3. The 71st Gojūin of the 108 Kannon Pilgrimage 4. A mixed version of the 2nd and 3rd Gojūin listed above.

Q: Is there a parking lot?

A: There is no special parking area. Although there is a road on the mountain path, if you drive up the mountain, please ensure that your vehicle does not obstruct other pedestrians and park it on the side road. Please note that vehicles cannot pass beyond the large yellow gate.

Q: Are there coin-operated lockers?

A: No.

Q: Where is the carving of the Shiwaku carpenter?

A: Above the main gate, there are elegant carvings, and below the main hall and the Kannon Hall, you can see boat oars that showcase the craftsmanship of the Shiohama artisans.