Overview
Kichijo-ji is a temple of the Toji school of Shingon Buddhism in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture, with the formal mountain name Mikkyozan and the sub-temple name Taizoin. As the 63rd sacred site of the Shikoku Pilgrimage of 88 temples, it welcomes many pilgrims. Its principal deity is Bishamonten (written here as Bishamon-ten), and remarkably it is the only one of the 88 temples to enshrine Bishamonten as its principal image. It greets visitors in Saijo, a land blessed with water and greenery at the foot of Mount Ishizuchi.
Highlights
- ●The only Shikoku Pilgrimage temple enshrining Bishamonten as its principal deity
- ●An old Toji-school Shingon temple named Mikkyozan Taizoin
- ●The pilgrimage atmosphere of the 63rd site of the Shikoku 88-temple route
- ●A temple of fortune counted among the Seven Lucky Gods of Shikoku (Toyo)
History
This old temple belongs to the Toji school of Shingon Buddhism and bears the names Mikkyozan and Taizoin. Positioned as the 63rd site of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, it has drawn the devotion of those walking the route associated with Kobo Daishi. Its principal deity Bishamonten is written as Bishamon-ten, and among the 88 sites, each of which enshrines a different Buddhist figure, this is known as the only one with Bishamonten as its main image. Counted among the Seven Lucky Gods of Shikoku (Toyo), it is cherished as a temple that bestows good fortune.
Access
The temple is located in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture. The nearest stations are around Iyo-Himi and Ishizuchiyama on the JR Yosan Line, and it lies close to the neighboring 62nd temple, Hoju-ji, so many pilgrims walk between them. Pilgrims traveling by car can head from central Saijo toward Mount Ishizuchi. Please check official information for the latest access and parking details.
Best season
Pilgrims visit throughout the year, but the mild spring and autumn are especially popular for walking pilgrims. Combining the visit with nearby temples lets you savor the cluster of sacred sites in Saijo at a relaxed pace. Summer sun can be strong, so remember to stay hydrated and guard against the heat while worshiping.
Map
33.8961, 133.1292 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Visit together with nearby temples such as the 62nd site, Hoju-ji
- 2Press your palms together before the unique Bishamonten image in the main hall
- 3Chant the mantra and pilgrimage verse and receive the temple seal
- 4Continue the pilgrimage while enjoying Saijo's water and greenery beneath Mount Ishizuchi
Did you know?
💡 Among all 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, Kichijo-ji is the only one to enshrine Bishamonten as its principal deity. The mantra of the principal deity is Om beishira mandaya sowaka. Its pilgrimage verse urges believers to cast aside the evil tidings within and pray only for good fortune, echoing the temple name Kichijo, meaning good fortune.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!