Overview
Horikoshi-ji is a temple of the Daikaku-ji school of Shingon Buddhism, located in Nakago-cho in the city of Komatsushima, Tokushima Prefecture. Its principal image is the Horikoshi Kannon (Bodhisattva of Compassion), long revered by local worshippers. The temple serves as the 22nd sacred site of the Awa-Chichibu Kannon pilgrimage, welcoming pilgrims in a quiet hillside setting. Rather than grand spectacle, it offers the calm, contemplative atmosphere characteristic of Shingon temples.
Highlights
- ●A Kannon-worship temple enshrining the Horikoshi Kannon
- ●The pilgrimage character of the 22nd Awa-Chichibu Kannon station
- ●The serene grounds typical of the Shingon Daikaku-ji school
- ●The stillness of the hills of Nakago-cho, Komatsushima
History
Belonging to the Daikaku-ji branch of Shingon Buddhism, Horikoshi-ji has gathered faith around its principal image, the Horikoshi Kannon. As the 22nd station of the Awa-Chichibu Kannon pilgrimage, it forms part of the route walked by those making the rounds of Kannon sacred sites, and has long fulfilled the role of a pilgrimage temple. For details of its founding and treasures, visitors are encouraged to consult on-site guidance or official sources. It is a temple that has quietly accumulated history through its ties to local Kannon devotion.
Access
The temple lies in Nakago-cho, Komatsushima, near latitude 34.01 and longitude 134.57. Set in the hills beyond the city center, it is more easily reached by car or taxi than by public transport. From the Tokushima direction, head south along the national road into Komatsushima. Pilgrims may find it convenient to combine a visit with other stations of the Awa-Chichibu Kannon route. Please confirm exact directions and parking through official information.
Best season
As a quiet hillside temple, it is especially pleasant in early summer when the fresh greenery glows, and in autumn when the air turns clear. Winter is cold but brings few visitors, allowing a calm and unhurried visit. Those touring the pilgrimage circuit will find spring and autumn ideal for a relaxed schedule.
Map
34.0124, 134.5737 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Travel from central Komatsushima to Horikoshi-ji in Nakago-cho
- 2Pay respects before the Kannon and stroll the quiet grounds
- 3Extend the trip to nearby stations of the Awa-Chichibu Kannon route
- 4Return to Komatsushima and close the day with a local meal
Did you know?
💡 The fact that the principal image is called simply the Horikoshi Kannon reflects the deep bond between this temple and Kannon worship. The Awa-Chichibu Kannon pilgrimage was established in Awa in imitation of the Chichibu Thirty-Four Kannon, and Horikoshi-ji occupies a place along that route as its 22nd station.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!