Complete Guide to Maegami-ji Temple | History and Highlights of the 64th Temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage
About Maegami-ji Temple
Maegami-ji Temple is the head temple of the Shingon sect, Ishizuchi branch, located in Sunouchi-ko, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture. Its formal name is Ishizuchi-san Konjiki-in, and its principal image is Amida Buddha. As the 64th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, it is an ancient temple visited by many pilgrims and worshippers.
Located at the foot of Mount Ishizuchi (elevation 1982m), known as one of Japan’s seven sacred mountains, it has long been revered as a fundamental training ground for Shugendo practitioners. Mount Ishizuchi, as the highest peak in western Japan, continues to be a sacred place for ascetics.
The most distinctive feature of Maegami-ji Temple is its close connection to Shugendo. It preserves a unique religious culture that blends the teachings of Shingon Buddhism with mountain worship, and continues to function as a place of ascetic practice.
History of Maegami-ji Temple
Founding and Founder
Maegami-ji Temple is said to have been founded during the reign of Emperor Tenmu (673-686). It is said that En no Ozunu, the founder of Shugendo (mountain asceticism), practiced asceticism on Mount Ishizuchi and founded the temple in this area.
En no Ozunu was a legendary ascetic who was active from the Asuka period to the Nara period, and is revered as the person who opened Mount Ishizuchi as a sacred site. The principal image of Maegami-ji Temple, Amida Buddha, is also traditionally attributed to En no Ozunu.
Emperor Kanmu and Elevation to Imperial Prayer Temple
A significant turning point in the history of Maegami-ji Temple was during the reign of Emperor Kanmu (781-806). Records show that when Emperor Kanmu was suffering from illness, he prayed to Ishizuchi Daigongen for recovery, and his prayers were miraculously answered.
Deeply moved by this miraculous event, Emperor Kanmu had seven temple buildings constructed and bestowed upon the temple the title of “Konjōin Maegami-ji.” This established Maegami-ji as an imperial temple, receiving national protection.
Faith of Successive Emperors
Even after Emperor Kanmu, Maegami-ji received fervent devotion from many emperors. Emperors such as Montoku, Takakura, Gotoba, and Juntoku deepened their faith in Maegami-ji and Mount Ishizuchi, and supported the temple’s development.
This deep connection with the imperial family indicates that Maegami-ji was not merely a local temple, but a sacred site of national importance.
As the Head Temple of Ishizuchi Mountain
Until the Edo period, Maegami-ji Temple functioned as the head temple of Ishizuchi Mountain. A head temple is a temple that manages a shrine, and during the era of syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism, shrines and temples operated together.
Maegami-ji Temple enshrined Ishizuchi Daigongen and played a central role in managing pilgrimages to Ishizuchi Mountain. Religious ceremonies such as the opening of Ishizuchi Mountain were also led and conducted by Maegami-ji Temple.
Separation of Shinto and Buddhism and Modernity
The Meiji-era policy of separating Shinto and Buddhism forced Maegami-ji Temple to undergo significant changes. With the prohibition of syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism, it lost its status as the head temple of Ishizuchi Mountain, and Ishizuchi Shrine was established independently.
This policy temporarily caused difficulties for Maegami-ji Temple, but it was reorganized as the head temple of the Shingon-shu Ishizuchi sect and continues to uphold its tradition as a fundamental training ground for Shugendo. It continues to function as a living place of faith, visited by many ascetic monks and worshippers.
Relationship with the Matsudaira Family
During the Edo period, Maegami-ji Temple was under the patronage of the Matsudaira family, the lords of the Saijo Domain. The Matsudaira family supported Maegami-ji Temple for generations, contributing to its maintenance and development. This relationship is a prime example of the close ties between powerful local daimyo and temples.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Main Hall
The main hall of Maegami-ji Temple is an important building located in the center of the temple grounds. It houses the principal image, Amida Buddha, and also functions as a stamp office for the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Inside the main hall, worshippers can experience a solemn atmosphere. Amida Buddha is worshipped as the principal deity of the Western Pure Land, promising salvation after death.
Daishi Hall
The Daishi Hall, dedicated to Kobo Daishi Kukai, is a particularly important place of worship on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Pilgrims traditionally recite sutras and offer their sutras at both the main hall and the Daishi Hall.
At the Daishi Hall, pilgrims can offer their faith and gratitude to Kobo Daishi. Many pilgrims pray here for safe travels and the fulfillment of their wishes.
Goma Hall
The Goma Hall is a building for the Goma ritual, an important practice in Esoteric Buddhism. It symbolizes Maegami-ji Temple’s status as a fundamental training ground for Shugendo (mountain asceticism).
The Goma ritual is a unique Esoteric Buddhist ceremony involving the burning of a fire and prayers, believed to burn away worldly desires and grant wishes. Goma rituals are held regularly, and general visitors can participate.
Yakushi Hall
The Yakushi Hall enshrines Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha worshipped for healing illnesses. Considering Maegami-ji Temple’s history of development through prayers for the recovery of Emperor Kanmu, the existence of the Yakushi Hall holds special significance.
Many visitors come here praying for good health, offering prayers for recovery from illness and maintaining good health.
Natural Environment of the Temple Grounds
The grounds of Maegami-ji Temple are a tranquil space surrounded by ancient and old trees. Taking advantage of its location at the foot of Mount Ishizuchi, a rich natural environment is preserved.
Even just walking through the grounds gives you a refreshing feeling that cleanses the soul. You can feel the changes of nature in each of the four seasons, with the fresh green of spring, the deep green of summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy landscape of winter each having its own unique charm.
Cultural Properties and Treasures
Principal Image: Amida Buddha
The principal image of Maegami-ji Temple, the Amida Buddha statue, is a precious Buddhist statue said to be the work of En no Ozuno. It has attracted the faith of many people throughout its long history.
Amida Buddha is a Buddha who is said to guide those who chant the Nembutsu to the Pure Land, and is one of the most widely worshipped Buddhas in Japanese Buddhism.
Temple Treasures and Historical Documents
Maegami-ji Temple houses numerous temple treasures and historical documents accumulated over its long history. These include imperial plaques from successive emperors, valuable documents related to Shugendo (mountain asceticism), and ritual implements used in ceremonies.
These cultural artifacts serve as valuable evidence of Maegami-ji Temple’s history and religious importance.
Annual Events
Ishizuchi-san Mountain Opening Ceremony
One of the most important events at Maegami-ji Temple is the opening ceremony of Ishizuchi-san Mountain. Held annually from July 1st to 10th, this traditional event sees many pilgrims ascending Ishizuchi-san.
During the mountain opening period, Shugendo practitioners and pilgrims, clad in white robes, head towards Ishizuchi-san. Maegami-ji Temple plays a vital role in this event, offering prayers for the safety of the climbers.
Goma Ritual
The regularly held Goma ritual is an important religious event at Maegami-ji Temple. The powerful ritual of raising the flames leaves a deep impression on those who witness it.
If you have a special prayer, you can also request a Goma ritual. Goma is performed with various wishes, such as business prosperity, family safety, and recovery from illness.
Other Annual Events
At Maegami-ji Temple, regular annual events as a Buddhist temple are also held, including the New Year’s visit, the spring and autumn equinox services, and the Obon festival’s Segaki memorial service.
Through these events, the temple strives to deepen its ties with the local community and pass on Buddhist culture.
Okunoin and Mount Ishizuchi
Ishizuchi Mountain Summit Shrine
The Okunoin of Maegami-ji Temple is the Ishizuchi Mountain Summit Shrine, located at the summit of Mount Ishizuchi. Climbing to the summit, at an altitude of 1982 meters, is considered an important part of the training for Shugendo practitioners.
Climbing to the summit is a challenging journey requiring both physical and mental strength, but the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment from the top are exceptional. From the highest peak in western Japan, you can see as far as the mountains of Shikoku and the Seto Inland Sea.
History of Climbing Mount Ishizuchi
Climbing Mount Ishizuchi has been a part of ascetic training since ancient times. By climbing the steep rocky slopes and using chains, climbers challenge their limits and aim for spiritual growth.
Even today, many ascetics and mountain climbers visit Mount Ishizuchi to experience its spiritual power and the grandeur of nature.
Sub-temples and Related Facilities
Maegami-ji Temple once had many sub-temples (tatchu). These sub-temples played an important role in supporting the main temple.
Due to policies such as the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, not as many sub-temples remain today, but they are important in telling the history of Maegami-ji Temple.
Positioning on the Shikoku Pilgrimage
As the 64th Temple
Maegami-ji Temple is the 64th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. It is one of the first temples encountered upon entering Ehime Prefecture (Iyo Province), and occupies an important position on the pilgrimage route.
The Shikoku Pilgrimage is a journey of pilgrimage following in the footsteps of Kobo Daishi Kukai, and many people walk it seeking peace of mind and the fulfillment of their wishes. Maegami-ji Temple is a place that provides comfort and encouragement to pilgrims along this route.
Waka Poem
The waka poem of Maegami-ji Temple is: “Before is the gods, behind is the Buddha, Ishizuchi, which crushes all sins on the way to paradise.”
This waka poem expresses the syncretic idea of Shinto and Buddhism and the miraculous power of Mount Ishizuchi, succinctly illustrating the religious characteristics of Maegami-ji Temple. “The god in front” refers to Ishizuchi Daigongen, and “the Buddha behind” refers to Amida Buddha; the song expresses the idea that the two are one and work together to save all sentient beings.
Preceding Temples
The temple before Maegami-ji is Kichijo-ji, the 63rd temple on the pilgrimage route. Kichijo-ji is located in Saijo City and is relatively close to Maegami-ji.
The next temple is Sankaku-ji, the 65th temple on the pilgrimage route. Sankaku-ji is located in Shikokuchuo City and is a little further from Maegami-ji.
Pilgrims complete the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage by visiting these temples in order.
Transportation Access
Access by Car
Maegami-ji is easily accessible by car. It is approximately 15 minutes from the Saijo Interchange on the Matsuyama Expressway.
It can be accessed via a prefectural road from National Route 11. Entering “Maegami-ji Temple” or “1426 Sunouchi-ko, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture” into your car navigation system will allow you to arrive smoothly.
Parking
Maegami-ji Temple has a free parking lot. There is space for approximately 50 regular cars, and large buses can also be parked.
While it can get crowded during the Shikoku Pilgrimage season and on weekends, there is usually ample parking space.
Access by Public Transportation
The nearest station is Iyo-Saijo Station on the JR Yosan Line. From the station, take the Setouchi Bus bound for “Nishinokawa/Kawaguchi” and get off at the “Maegami-ji-mae” bus stop; the temple is a short walk from there.
Since bus services are limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance. If using a taxi, it takes approximately 15 minutes from Iyo-Saijo Station.
For Pilgrims on Foot
For those on the pilgrimage on foot, Maegami-ji Temple is located at the foot of Mt. Ishizuchi, making the route somewhat challenging.
It’s about 3 kilometers from the previous temple, Kichijoji, a walk of about 1 hour. The next temple, Sankakuji, is about 30 kilometers away, a walk of about 7-8 hours.
Guidelines for Visiting
Etiquette for Visiting
When visiting Maegamiji Temple, follow the general etiquette for visiting any temple. Bow at the temple gate and purify your hands and mouth at the water basin.
Pray at both the main hall and the Daishi Hall, and receive your temple stamp at the stamp office. It is important to pray quietly and with sincerity.
Clothing and Items to Bring
There are no specific dress code requirements, but please wear clean clothing appropriate for visiting a temple. While it’s not necessary to wear the formal Shikoku pilgrimage attire of white robes and straw hats, many pilgrims wear them.
Bringing a pilgrimage notebook, prayer beads, and sutra book will make your visit more fulfilling.
Visiting Hours and Sutra Copying Hours
While you can generally visit the grounds of Maegami-ji Temple freely, the sutra copying office is only open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
If you wish to have your sutra copied, you must visit within these hours. Hours may change during the New Year holidays, so it is recommended to check in advance.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Mt. Ishizuchi
After visiting Maegami-ji Temple, consider climbing Mt. Ishizuchi. You can experience the magnificent nature of the highest peak in Western Japan.
Using the Ishizuchi Mountain Ropeway, you can reach the middle of the mountain relatively easily. For those who want to enjoy a more serious climb, it is also possible to hike from Maegami-ji Temple.
Minepia Besshi
In Niihama City, near Saijo City, there is a tourist facility called Minepia Besshi. You can learn about the history of the former Besshi Copper Mine and enjoy mine tunnel tours and hot springs.
Located about 30 minutes by car from Maegami-ji Temple, it’s a convenient stop during the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Water Culture of Saijo City
Saijo City is known as the “City of Water,” with abundant groundwater from the Ishizuchi Mountain Range gushing forth throughout the city. There are numerous artesian wells called “uchinuki,” where you can enjoy the pure water.
When visiting Maegami-ji Temple, we recommend experiencing Saijo City’s water culture as well.
The Charm and Significance of Maegami-ji Temple
Maegami-ji Temple is a multifaceted temple, being one of the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, the head temple of the Ishizuchi branch of the Shingon sect, and a fundamental training ground for Shugendo (mountain asceticism).
Historically, it began with its founding by En no Ozuno, attracted the faith of successive emperors, including Emperor Kanmu, and played an important role as the head temple of Ishizuchi Mountain. Even after the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, it has continued to preserve its religious traditions to this day.
Located at the foot of Mount Ishizuchi, one of Japan’s most sacred mountains, Maegami-ji Temple boasts a unique religious culture that blends mountain worship and esoteric Buddhism. As a place of practice for Shugendo (mountain asceticism), many practitioners still visit and engage in rigorous training.
As a temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, it is an important base providing spiritual support and encouragement to pilgrims. Many people find peace of mind through their visit to Maegami-ji Temple before continuing their journey to the next temple.
Visiting Maegami-ji Temple is not merely sightseeing; it is a valuable opportunity to experience Japanese religious culture and history. The majestic nature of Mount Ishizuchi, the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient temple, and the strict traditions of Shugendo—all of these contribute to the charm of Maegami-ji Temple.
Summary
Maegami-ji Temple is the head temple of the Shingon-shu Ishizuchi sect, located in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture, and the 64th temple on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Located at the foot of Mount Ishizuchi, one of Japan’s seven sacred mountains, Maegami-ji Temple boasts a long history as a fundamental training ground for Shugendo (Japanese mountain asceticism).
From its founding by En no Ozunu, to its development at the behest of Emperor Kanmu, the faith of successive emperors, its role as the head temple of Mount Ishizuchi, and its reorganization after the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, the history of Maegami-ji Temple can be considered a microcosm of Japanese religious history.
The temple grounds include the main hall, Daishi Hall, Goma Hall, and Yakushi Hall, offering a tranquil environment for worship surrounded by ancient trees. Events such as the opening of Mount Ishizuchi and Goma rituals are also held here, making it a living place of faith.
As a pilgrimage site on the Shikoku Pilgrimage and a sacred site of Shugendo, Maegami-ji Temple serves as a spiritual haven for many. It is easily accessible, approximately 15 minutes by car from the Saijo Interchange, and has ample free parking.
Visiting Maegami-ji Temple in conjunction with a climb of Mount Ishizuchi and other nearby tourist attractions will provide a more fulfilling experience. Maegami-ji Temple is a special place where you can experience the beauty of Japanese religious culture and nature at the same time.
