Complete Guide to Senyuji Temple | History, Highlights, and Visiting Information for the 58th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage
About Senyuji Temple
Senyuji Temple is a Shingon sect Koyasan branch temple located in Bessho, Tamagawa-cho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, and is known as the 58th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Its official name is “Sareizan Senkoin Senyuji,” and it is a sacred site with a magnificent view, situated on a hill 300m above sea level.
It is a popular spot for its spectacular views, offering panoramic vistas of Imabari city, the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and even the Shimanami Kaido. It attracts many tourists as well as pilgrims on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Origin of the Name “Sareizan”
The origin of the temple’s mountain name, “Sareizan,” is based on a legend related to the principal image, the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva. The temple’s mountain name originates from a legend that a female dragon, who traveled up the Ryutogawa River from the sea, carved the main image of Buddha by bowing three times with each stroke of her chisel. This “three bows with one stroke” spirit is known as a phrase representing the highest level of respect and concentration in the creation of Buddhist statues.
History and Development of Senyu-ji Temple
Founding and Imperial Prayer of Emperor Tenji
The founding of Senyu-ji Temple dates back to the Asuka period. It is said to have begun when Ochi Morioki, the governor of Iyo Province at the time, built the temple buildings at the request of Emperor Tenji (reigned 661-672). The Ochi clan was a powerful local family in Iyo Province and greatly contributed to the development of culture and religion in the region.
The fact that it was founded as an imperial prayer temple by Emperor Tenji indicates that this temple had a deep relationship with the imperial court from ancient times and held national importance.
Connection to Kobo Daishi
It is said that Kobo Daishi Kukai visited this place and practiced asceticism during his pilgrimage through Shikoku. The Daishi was deeply impressed by the miraculous power of Senyu-ji Temple and developed it as a sacred site, which is the origin of its designation as the 58th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.
Within the temple grounds is a sacred spring called Kobo Daishi’s Blessed Water, and many worshippers still visit to seek this water.
History of Successive Chief Priests and Restoration
Throughout its long history, Senyu-ji Temple has suffered damage from several fires and wars. It suffered particularly heavy damage during the Sengoku period (Warring States period), but was restored during the Edo period while attracting the faith of the local community.
Yuren Shonin is known as a high-ranking priest who dedicated himself to the restoration of Senyu-ji Temple, and a memorial tower for him has been erected on the temple grounds.
Principal Image and Beliefs
Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva
The principal image of Senyu-ji Temple is the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva. As mentioned earlier, there is a legend that a dragon woman who emerged from the sea carved this statue with three bows for each stroke of the chisel, and this principal image is believed to possess special miraculous powers.
The Thousand-Armed Kannon has a thousand arms and a thousand eyes and is worshipped as a compassionate Buddha who saves all sentient beings. The Thousand-Armed Kannon at Senyu-ji Temple is particularly revered as a guardian deity for maritime safety and safe voyages, and has been deeply worshipped by fishermen and sailors of the Seto Inland Sea.
Koyasu Kannon and Prayers for Safe Childbirth
The temple grounds also enshrine Koyasu Kannon, who is cherished by local people as a guardian deity for safe childbirth and child-rearing. Many female worshippers can be seen praying for safe childbirth and returning to offer thanks.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Main Hall
The main hall is built on a hill 300m above sea level, near the summit of Mt. Sakurei. Inside the main hall, the principal image, the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva, is enshrined, allowing visitors to worship in a solemn atmosphere.
The view from the main hall is magnificent, offering a panoramic view of Imabari city, the Imabari International Hotel, the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and the Shimanami Kaido. The view is particularly spectacular on a clear day, and it is known as one of the most scenic spots on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Daishido Hall
The Daishido Hall, dedicated to Kobo Daishi, is built adjacent to the main hall. It is customary for pilgrims to chant sutras in the Daishido Hall after visiting the main hall.
Emperor Tenji’s Five-Ring Pagoda
A five-ring pagoda related to Emperor Tenji remains on the temple grounds. This pagoda is a valuable historical site that conveys that Senyu-ji Temple was an imperial temple commissioned by Emperor Tenji.
A Thousand Buddha Statues and Buddha Footprint Stone
A thousand Buddha statues line the temple grounds, creating a magnificent sight. Furthermore, a Buddha footprint stone is enshrined here. This object of worship, with the footprints of Shakyamuni Buddha carved into stone, preserves a form of worship from the early days of Buddhism’s introduction to Japan.
Shinnen Milestone
A milestone erected by Shinnen, a monk from the Edo period, remains on the temple grounds. Shinnen was a figure who erected many milestones to guide pilgrims on the Shikoku pilgrimage, and this milestone is an important cultural asset that tells the history of the Shikoku pilgrimage.
Kobo Daishi’s Blessed Water
It is said that sacred water blessed by Kobo Daishi springs forth on the temple grounds. This water is believed to have the benefit of healing illnesses and promoting health and longevity, and visitors can take some home with them.
Temple Lodgings and Facilities for Visitors
Temple Lodging Experience
Senyu-ji Temple has temple lodgings where pilgrims and general visitors can stay. Located on a hill 300m above sea level, it offers a tranquil environment where you can rest your mind and body.
At the temple lodging, guests can participate in the morning service and experience chanting by monks. This is a valuable experience not found in everyday life and is popular with many guests.
Shojin Ryori (Vegetarian Cuisine)
The temple lodging serves shojin ryori (vegetarian cuisine). Dishes made without meat or fish, using vegetables, tofu, and yuba (tofu skin), have a gentle flavor that brings out the natural taste of the ingredients. Through shojin ryori, guests can experience the Buddhist teaching of “non-killing.”
The shojin ryori, using seasonal ingredients, is also nutritionally balanced and is offered to pilgrims as a meal that purifies the mind and body.
Cultural Properties and Historic Sites
Cultural Properties Constituting a Japan Heritage Site
Senyu-ji Temple is designated as a cultural property constituting the “Shikoku Pilgrimage,” a Japan Heritage site. The Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, a pilgrimage route with a history of over 1200 years, was recognized as a Japan Heritage site in 2015.
Among them, Senyuji Temple holds an important position as a sacred site with unique cultural value, due to its historical background as an imperial temple commissioned by Emperor Tenji, its location at an altitude of 300m, and the legend of the Dragon Woman.
Stone Sculptures
Numerous stone sculptures remain on the temple grounds. The memorial tower for Yūren Shōnin, the Shinnen signpost, the thousand Buddha statues, and the Buddha footprint stone are all valuable cultural assets that tell the story of the history of faith since the Edo period.
These stone sculptures are not merely religious objects, but also valuable works of art that convey the stonemasonry techniques and aesthetic sensibilities of the time.
Annual Events and Memorial Services
Regular Memorial Services
Senyuji Temple holds regular memorial services every month. In particular, a memorial service is held in the Daishi Hall on the 21st of each month, which is the anniversary of Kōbō Daishi’s passing.
Spring and Autumn Grand Festivals
Grand festivals are held in spring and autumn, attracting many believers and worshippers. Special Buddhist ceremonies, such as Goma fire rituals, are held, and the temple grounds are bustling with activity.
Access and Transportation Information
Location
Address: 483 Bessho-ko, Tamagawa-cho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from Imabari IC
- Via National Route 196 and Prefectural Route 155
- The road is uphill and has many curves, so caution is required.
Parking
There is a free parking lot on the temple grounds, accommodating approximately 30 regular cars and several large buses. Because it is located on a mountaintop at an altitude of 300m, the path from the parking lot to the main hall is relatively flat and easy to walk.
Public Transportation
Approximately 20 minutes by taxi from JR Imabari Station. Bus services are infrequent, so pilgrims will need to use taxis or walk the pilgrimage route.
Distance to the preceding and succeeding temples
- From Temple No. 57, Eifuku-ji: Approximately 3km (about 1 hour on foot)
- To Temple No. 59, Kokubun-ji: Approximately 33km (about 8 hours on foot)
The distance from Temple No. 58 to No. 59 is relatively long, so careful planning is necessary for your pilgrimage.
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours
- 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Temple Office)
- Temple grounds are open 24 hours
Temple Offering Fees
- Temple Book: 300 yen
- Hanging Scroll: 500 yen
- White Robe: 200 yen
Visiting Etiquette
- Bow at the temple gate before entering
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin
- Chant sutras and pray in the main hall
- Chant sutras and pray in the Daishi Hall
- Receive your temple offering at the temple office
- Bow when leaving the temple gate
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Shimanami Kaido
The Shimanami Kaido, which can be viewed from the main hall of Senyu-ji Temple, is a sea route approximately 60 km long connecting Honshu and Shikoku. It is also known as a cycling mecca, attracting cyclists from all over the world.
Imabari Castle
Located in the heart of Imabari City, Imabari Castle is a unique seaside castle with a moat filled with seawater. Many tourists visit it in conjunction with a visit to Senyu-ji Temple.
Imabari Towel Museum
Imabari is known as one of Japan’s leading towel-producing regions. At the Imabari Towel Museum, you can observe the towel manufacturing process and purchase high-quality Imabari towels.
Nearby “Roadside Stations”
Roadside Station “Imabari Yunoura Onsen”
This roadside station is about a 20-minute drive from Senyu-ji Temple. It has a hot spring facility where you can relax and unwind after your pilgrimage. Fresh local agricultural and marine products are also sold, making it ideal for souvenir purchases.
Roadside Station “Yoshiumi Ikiiki-kan”
Located along the Shimanami Kaido, this roadside station offers fresh seafood while overlooking the rapids of the Kurushima Strait. Seafood barbecue is particularly popular, attracting many tourists.
Senyuji Temple and the Seto Inland Sea Landscape
One of the greatest attractions of Senyuji Temple is the spectacular view of the Seto Inland Sea from an altitude of 300 meters. On a clear day, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the many islands of varying sizes floating in the Seto Inland Sea, and fully appreciate the scenery of the “Seto Inland Sea National Park.”
The view at sunset is particularly exceptional; the sight of the setting sun painting the sea and sky red is deeply etched in the hearts of visitors.
The Position of Senyuji Temple in the Shikoku Pilgrimage
Senyuji Temple, the 58th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, holds an important position among the pilgrimage sites in Iyo Province (Ehime Prefecture). Its location at an altitude of 300 meters presents a challenge for pilgrims, but also rewards them with a sense of accomplishment and breathtaking views upon reaching the top.
The legend of the main image of Buddha, carved with the spirit of “one stroke, three bows,” teaches pilgrims the importance of cherishing each step and undertaking the pilgrimage with a grateful heart.
Training Experience at Senyu-ji Temple
Senyu-ji Temple offers training experiences such as sutra copying and Buddha image copying to those who wish to participate (advance reservation required). The time spent calmly taking up a brush in the tranquil temple grounds is a precious experience that allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
By participating in the morning service, you can hear the monks chanting up close and experience Buddhist rituals.
Precautions When Visiting Senyu-ji Temple
Driving on Mountain Roads
Since the temple is located on a mountaintop at an altitude of 300m, you will need to drive up mountain roads. There are many curves and some sections of the road are narrow, so driving requires extreme caution. Pay particular attention to road conditions during rainy weather and winter.
Clothing and Equipment
The temperature on the mountaintop is lower than on the plains, so please prepare appropriate clothing for the season. Especially in winter, warm clothing is necessary. Also, since the temple grounds have stone steps and slopes, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes for your visit.
Checking Visiting Hours
The temple office closes at 5 PM, so please allow ample time for your visit. Planning your visit, especially considering the distance from the previous temple and the travel time to the next, is crucial.
Summary
Senyu-ji Temple is a sacred site with many attractions, including its history as a temple founded by Emperor Tenji, its principal image adorned with the legend of the Dragon Princess, its spectacular views from an altitude of 300 meters, and its important role as a temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Visiting the temple grounds overlooking the Seto Inland Sea will be a soul-cleansing experience. We recommend taking your time to visit, including staying at the temple lodging, enjoying vegetarian cuisine, and experiencing sutra copying.
Senyu-ji Temple is a place worth visiting not only for Shikoku pilgrims, but also for those interested in history and culture, and those seeking beautiful scenery. Why not spend some time in the tranquil atmosphere of Mt. Sakurei, calming your mind and reflecting on yourself?
