長寿寺

Overview

Chōjuji is a temple of the Kōyasan Shingon school located in Awata, Kitanada-chō, in the city of Naruto, Tokushima Prefecture. Its mountain name is Kaimonzan, it enshrines Amida Nyorai as its principal image, and it is known as the fifth temple of the Shin-Shikoku Mandala pilgrimage. Set in a quiet hamlet in northern Naruto facing the Seto Inland Sea, it has welcomed pilgrims and locals amid a setting embraced by both sea and mountains.

Highlights

• ●The esoteric Shingon character of a Kōyasan Shingon temple
• ●The mountain name Kaimonzan reflecting its seaside setting
• ●A quiet space of prayer enshrining Amida Nyorai as principal image
• ●The pilgrim's mood as the fifth temple of the Shin-Shikoku Mandala route

History

Chōjuji belongs to the Kōyasan Shingon school and transmits the esoteric Shingon teachings associated with Kōbō Daishi Kūkai. Its mountain name, Kaimonzan, meaning something like 'sea-gate mountain,' reflects its seaside location and speaks to the character of a temple living beside the Seto Inland Sea. As the fifth temple of the Shin-Shikoku Mandala pilgrimage, it has taken its place along a route that winds through Shikoku. For details of its founding and treasures, it is best to consult official information.

Map

34.2189, 134.5384 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Arrive at the seaside hamlet of Kitanada-chō in Naruto
2. 2Visit Chōjuji and offer prayers before the principal image, Amida Nyorai
3. 3Enjoy the view of the Seto Inland Sea evoked by the name Kaimonzan
4. 4Continue along the Shin-Shikoku Mandala pilgrimage to nearby temples

Did you know?

💡 The mountain name Kaimonzan expresses a location like a gate opening onto the sea. The principal image, Amida Nyorai, is beloved as the buddha who guides beings to the Pure Land, and together with the temple's name Chōjuji, meaning 'long life,' it carries an auspicious ring. It is also the fifth temple of the Shin-Shikoku Mandala pilgrimage.

Nearby spots