Complete Guide to Hokiin Temple | History, Highlights, and Goshuin (Temple Seal) Information for the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites
Hokiin Temple is a Shingon sect (Toyozan branch) temple located in Hatsuse, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, and is known as an extra temple on the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage. As a sub-temple of Hase-dera Temple, it is the place where Tokudo Shonin, the founder of the Saigoku pilgrimage, spent his later years, making it a sacred site of special significance for pilgrims.
History and Origins of Hokiin Temple
Founding of Hokiin Temple by Tokudo Shonin
Hokiin Temple was founded in 735 AD (Tenpyo 7) by Tokudo Shonin. Tokudo Shonin was a high-ranking priest of the Nara period and is known for creating the Eleven-Faced Kannon, the principal image of Hase-dera Temple.
According to legend, Tokudo Shonin fell into a state of suspended animation at the age of 62 and was summoned before Enma Daio (King Yama). At that time, he is said to have received a divine message from King Yama, instructing him to “open a pilgrimage route to atone for his sins in life and to save people,” and was given a sacred seal indicating the 33 sacred sites of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. The resurrected monk founded the Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage based on this mystical experience.
In his later years, Tokudo Shonin retired to this area and built a temple, which marked the beginning of Hokki-in. The name “Hokki” signifies the place where the Buddhist teachings of the Saigoku Pilgrimage originated, and holds significant meaning as the origin of the pilgrimage.
Reconstruction and Current State
After some time had passed since its founding, Hokki-in was rebuilt in 1695 (Genroku 8) by Abbot Eigaku of Hase-dera Temple. Currently, Hokki-in is maintained as a sub-temple of Hase-dera Temple and is visited by many pilgrims as an extra temple of the Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage.
The temple grounds are not particularly large, but a tranquil atmosphere is maintained, making it a precious space that conveys the spirit of Tokudo Shonin to this day.
Highlights of Hokkiin Temple
Principal Image: Statue of Tokudo Shonin
The principal image of Hokkiin Temple is a statue of Tokudo Shonin. This statue commemorates the virtues of the saint and is revered as the founder of the Saigoku Pilgrimage. The statue enshrined in the hall is cherished as an object of faith for pilgrims.
Tokudo Shonin’s Mausoleum and Thirteen-Story Stone Pagoda
Within the temple grounds is the mausoleum of Tokudo Shonin, and a magnificent thirteen-story stone pagoda stands above it. To the left of the temple gate is a stone monument inscribed with “Mausoleum of Tokudo Shonin, Founder of Hase-dera Temple,” indicating that this is the place where the saint passed away.
The thirteen-story stone pagoda was built to comfort the spirit of the saint and is an important point of worship when visiting Hokkiin Temple. Pilgrims can be seen constantly joining their hands in prayer before the stone pagoda, offering their gratitude to the founder of the Saigoku Pilgrimage.
Tokudo Shoe Removal Stone
Within the temple grounds is a mysterious stone called the “Tokudo Shoe Removal Stone.” It is said that touching this stone will grant wishes, and many visitors touch it while making their wishes. This stone, believed to have been actually used by the monk, is known as a unique power spot at Hokkiin Temple.
Postcard Tree (Tarayo)
Within the temple grounds is a Tarayo tree, known as the “postcard tree.” The leaves of this tree have the property that if you scratch the underside with a sharp object, letters will appear in black, and they have been used as a substitute for letters since ancient times. This is said to be the origin of the modern word “postcard (hagaki).”
It is said that if visitors write their wishes on the leaves, they will come true, and it is believed to bring blessings for matchmaking and wish fulfillment. This is a valuable spot where you can actually hold a leaf and write your wish.
Blue-Faced Kongo Statue (Secret Buddha)
Hokkiin Temple houses a secret Buddha statue of Hase Koshin Blue-Faced Kongo. While normally closed to the public, a special unveiling is held annually from mid-to-late October, allowing visitors to worship. This Buddha statue, associated with Koshin belief, is believed to offer protection against misfortune and grant health and longevity.
Significance as an Extra Temple of the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage
Hokkiin Temple is designated as an “extra temple” of the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage. Extra temples are special sacred sites established separately from the thirty-three main temples. As a place associated with Tokudo Shonin, the founder of the Saigoku pilgrimage, Hokkiin Temple is an indispensable sacred site for pilgrims.
Many pilgrims visit Hokkiin Temple after completing the Saigoku pilgrimage, or when visiting Hase-dera Temple, the eighth temple on the pilgrimage. Offering a prayer of gratitude to Tokudo Shonin here is said to deepen the meaning of the pilgrimage.
Waka Poem
The waka poem of Hokkiin Temple is “Pure Land is not somewhere far away; our hearts are the same, like lotus flowers, so is there any separation?” This poem expresses the Buddhist teaching that the Pure Land is not a distant place, but resides within one’s own heart.
Goshuin (Temple Seal) Information
At Hokkiin Temple, you can receive a goshuin (temple seal) for the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage (an unofficial temple). The goshuin is given out at the sutra copying office inside the main hall, and the words “Tokudo Shonin” and “Unofficial” are written in ink.
If you bring your goshuin book, it will be written directly for you, but during busy times or when the monk is absent, pre-written goshuin may be available. Be sure to receive the goshuin from Hokkiin Temple as proof of your Saigoku pilgrimage.
Visiting hours and sutra copying hours vary by season. From March 20th to November 30th, hours are 8:30 to 17:00, and from December 1st to March 19th, hours are 9:00 to 16:30. It is recommended to visit with ample time.
Benefits and Amulets
At Hokkiin Temple, the following benefits are believed to be available through the protection of Tokudo Shonin:
- Wish Fulfillment: Writing your wish on the postcard tree will make it come true.
- Matchmaking: Writing your wish for matchmaking on a Tara leaf will bring good fortune in love.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Touching the Tokudo Shonin shoe-removing stone will improve your luck.
- Health and Longevity: Visiting the Aomen Kongo statue will ward off evil and grant prayers for good health.
- Completion of Pilgrimage: Completion of the Saigoku Pilgrimage and fulfillment of your wishes.
Amulets and other items are available at the sutra copying office. Amulets related to the Saigoku Pilgrimage and items associated with Tokudo Shonin are available.
Relationship with Hase-dera Temple
Hoki-in is a sub-temple of Hase-dera Temple, and the two temples are closely related. Hase-dera Temple is a large temple known as the eighth temple on the Saigoku Pilgrimage, and it is where Tokudo Shonin created the principal image, the Eleven-Faced Kannon.
Hoki-in is about a 15-minute walk from Hase-dera Temple and is located along the approach to Hase-dera. Many pilgrims visit Hoki-in when visiting Hase-dera, and visit both temples together.
In contrast to the splendor of Hase-dera, Hoki-in has a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, and visiting both temples allows you to experience different charms.
Basic Information
Location and Contact Information
- Official Name: Hozan Hokiin Temple
- Sect: Shingon-shu Buzan-ha
- Principal Image: Statue of Tokudo Shonin
- Address: 776 Hatsuse, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture 633-0112
- Phone: 0744-47-8032
- FAX: 0744-47-8052
Visiting Hours and Fees
- Visiting Hours:
- March 20th to November 30th: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- December 1st to March 19th: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Admission Fee: Free
- Holidays: Open all year round
- Parking: Parking available (free, limited spaces)
Access Information
Access by Train
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Osaka Line “Hase-dera Station”
- Proceed along the approach to Hase-dera Temple, and it is located a little further on the right after passing the temple gate.
Access by Car
- Approximately 40 minutes from Nishi-Meihan Expressway “Tenri IC”
- Approximately 30 minutes from Meihan National Highway “Hari IC”
- Enter “Hoki-in” or “776 Hatsuse, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture” into your car navigation system.
There is a small free parking lot on the temple grounds, but spaces are limited. During busy times, it is recommended to use the paid parking lot at Hase-dera Temple and visit on foot.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Hase-dera Temple
The eighth temple of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, located approximately 15 minutes on foot from Hoki-in Temple. Known as the “Temple of Flowers,” you can enjoy the beauty of each season, including peonies in spring, hydrangeas in early summer, and autumn leaves. The main hall and covered corridor, both designated National Treasures, are must-sees.
Yoki Tenman Shrine
An ancient shrine located about a 5-minute walk from Hase-dera Station. It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, and is believed to grant blessings for passing exams and academic success. Many visitors stop by this shrine when visiting Hase-dera Temple.
Kasayama Sanpo Kojin Shrine
One of Japan’s three great Kojin shrines, located in the Kasa district of Sakurai City. Worshipped as the god of fire and hearths, it is believed to grant blessings for family safety and business prosperity. It is about a 20-minute drive from Hokki-in Temple.
Mizuwake Shrine (Ouda, Uda City)
An ancient shrine in Uda City, dedicated to the god of water. Known for its blessings for safe childbirth and fertility. It is about a 30-minute drive from Hokki-in Temple.
Points and Manners for Visiting the Temple
Flow of Visiting the Temple
- Pass through the temple gate, bow, and enter the temple grounds.
- Visit the main hall, pay your respects to the statue of Tokudo Shonin, offer a donation, and clasp your hands together in prayer.
- Visit the thirteen-story stone pagoda of Tokudo Shonin’s mausoleum.
- Touch the Tokudo Shonin shoe-removing stone and make a wish.
- Experience writing your wish on a postcard tree (Tara leaf).
- Receive a temple stamp at the sutra office.
Manners for Visiting the Temple
- Visit the temple grounds quietly and be considerate of other visitors.
- Photography is permitted, but remember to be considerate of the interior of the main hall and other visitors.
- When taking home leaves from the postcard tree, take only the necessary number.
- Always take your trash with you.
Annual Events and Special Viewings
Autumn Unveiling of the Hidden Aomen Kongo Statue at Hase Koshin Temple
Every year from mid-to-late October (usually around October 18th to 26th), the hidden Aomen Kongo statue of Hase Koshin Temple is specially unveiled. This period offers a rare opportunity to view this sacred Buddha, which is not normally visible.
Events Related to the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage
During special events and commemorative projects organized by the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Association, special ceremonies and events may also be held at Hokkiin Temple. We recommend checking the official website for the latest information.
Nearby Accommodations
There are several accommodations around Hokkiin Temple, mainly in front of Hase-dera Temple.
Temple Gate Inns
In front of Hase-dera Temple, there are traditional inns and guesthouses where you can enjoy vegetarian cuisine and dishes made with local ingredients. They are conveniently located within walking distance of Hokkiin Temple and Hase-dera Temple.
Hotels in Sakurai City
There are business hotels and other accommodations around Kintetsu Sakurai Station. Hokkiin Temple is accessible from the station by train and bus.
Recommended for Solo Travelers
Hokkiin Temple offers a peaceful environment for worship, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers. It’s perfect for a leisurely visit as part of a pilgrimage to the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage or a tour of ancient temples in Nara.
Summary
Hokkiin Temple is a sacred site of special significance for pilgrims, as it is associated with Tokudo Shonin, the founder of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage of 33 temples. Located in the tranquil environment of Hatsuse, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, it boasts numerous historical and legendary sites, including Tokudo Shonin’s mausoleum, a thirteen-story stone pagoda, and the “postcard tree.”
Despite its convenient location, approximately a 15-minute walk from Hase-dera Temple, the temple grounds are enveloped in a serene atmosphere, providing a peaceful space for worship. With free admission and open year-round, Hokkiin Temple is a must-visit temple for anyone sightseeing in Nara.
Whether you’re aspiring to the Saigoku Pilgrimage, interested in history and culture, or simply seeking solace in a peaceful temple setting, Hokkiin Temple offers an unforgettable experience. Spend some precious time reflecting on the legacy of Tokudo Shonin and connecting with the origins of the Saigoku Pilgrimage.
