Kikenji Temple (Atsuta Ward, Aichi Prefecture) Complete Guide | The History of the Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage and the Rain-Bringing Kannon
Kikenji Temple, located in Jingu, Atsuta Ward, Nagoya City, is a Shingon sect Chizan school temple situated just a few minutes from the main gate of Atsuta Shrine. Known as Unryuzan, and enshrining the Eleven-Faced Holy Kannon Bodhisattva as its principal image, this temple is the 14th stop on the Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage and attracts many pilgrims. This article comprehensively introduces information useful for visiting Kikenji Temple, including its history, highlights, goshuin (temple stamp) information, and access methods.
Basic Information about Kikenji Temple
Temple Name: Unryuzan Kikenji Temple
Location: 2-4-10 Jingū, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture
Phone Number: 052-671-0916
Sect: Shingon-shu Chizan-ha
Principal Image: Eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva
Founded: Kōji 2 (1556)
Pilgrimage Site: Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage Site, No. 14
Located adjacent to the sacred grounds of Atsuta Shrine, many visitors come to Kikenji Temple in conjunction with their visit to Atsuta Shrine. It is a temple where one can feel the weight of history amidst a quiet atmosphere.
History and Origins of Kikenji Temple
Founding and Founder
Kikenji Temple was founded in Kōji 2 (1556). During the turbulent Sengoku period, Atsuta held a crucial position as a key point on the Tokaido road, and many temples and shrines were built there. As a temple belonging to the Chizan branch of Shingon Buddhism, it has functioned as a center for transmitting the teachings of Esoteric Buddhism.
The temple’s name, “Kiken,” is a Buddhist term meaning “to see with joy” or “to worship Buddha with joy,” and is thought to embody the wish that worshippers may worship Kannon (the Goddess of Mercy) with joyful hearts.
Relationship with Atsuta Shrine
Kikenji Temple is located just a three-minute walk from the main gate (south gate) of Atsuta Shrine and has long had deep ties to the local faith of Atsuta. During the era of syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism, the shrine and temple coexisted, supporting the local faith.
Even after the Meiji-era separation of Shinto and Buddhism, it continues to serve as a center of Kannon worship and a spiritual haven for the local residents of Atsuta.
Post-War Reconstruction
Nagoya City suffered extensive air raids during World War II, and Atsuta Ward also sustained significant damage. Kikenji Temple was affected by the war, but it was rebuilt during the post-war reconstruction, resulting in its current temple complex. The principal image, the Eleven-Faced Kannon statue, escaped the ravages of war and has been carefully preserved to this day.
Principal Image: Eleven-Faced Holy Kannon Bodhisattva and the Rain Legend
Characteristics of the Eleven-Faced Kannon
The principal image of Kikenji Temple, the Eleven-Faced Holy Kannon Bodhisattva, is a Kannon with eleven faces on its head. The Eleven-Faced Kannon is considered a symbol of compassion, seeing in all directions and never overlooking the suffering of all sentient beings, thus providing relief.
Each of the eleven faces has a different expression. The three faces in the front represent Bodhisattva faces (expressions of compassion), the three faces on the left represent wrathful faces (expressions of admonishment against evil), the three faces on the right represent faces with protruding canine teeth (expressions of encouraging good), the face at the back represents a big laugh (expressions of enlightenment), and the face on top represents a Buddha face (expressions of a Tathagata).
The Legend of the Rain-Bringing Kannon
A special legend is associated with the Eleven-Faced Kannon of Kikenji Temple. It is said that “when the doors of the shrine are opened, it rains.”
According to this legend, when droughts or sunken periods continued, local people would gather at Kikenji Temple, open the Kannon’s shrine, and pray for rain. In fact, there are records of rain beginning to fall when the doors were opened during droughts in the past.
This belief in the “Rain-Bringing Kannon” holds particular significance for people who make their living from agriculture, and it is an episode that speaks to their deep faith in Kannon. Currently, the shrine is usually closed and is only opened on special occasions.
About the Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage
Overview of the Pilgrimage
Kikenji Temple is designated as the fourteenth temple of the Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage. The Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage is a pilgrimage visiting Shingon Buddhist temples in Nagoya City that enshrine Kobo Daishi (Kukai).
This pilgrimage was modeled after the Shikoku Eighty-Eight Temple Pilgrimage and was established to allow people to easily experience a pilgrimage of Kobo Daishi faith within Nagoya City. Each temple enshrines Kobo Daishi, and you can receive a Goshuin (temple stamp).
Significance of the Pilgrimage
By visiting the Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage, you can experience the teachings of Kobo Daishi and engage in spiritual training. Each temple has its own unique history and characteristics, making this a valuable opportunity to experience Nagoya’s history and culture through the pilgrimage.
At Kikenji Temple, a statue of Kobo Daishi is enshrined in the main hall, fulfilling its role as a pilgrimage site. Those undertaking a pilgrimage can receive a temple stamp in their pilgrimage notebook.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Temple Gate
Kikenji Temple’s temple gate, facing the street, is modest yet exudes a sense of dignity. Passing through the gate, one enters a tranquil space far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The temple’s name is displayed on the gate’s pillars, serving as a welcoming boundary for visitors. While simple in design, it possesses the dignity befitting a Shingon Buddhist temple.
Main Hall
The main hall is located in the center of the temple grounds and houses the principal image, the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva. Although rebuilt after the war, it follows the traditional style of temple architecture, creating a calm and serene atmosphere.
Inside the main hall, in addition to the principal image, statues of Kobo Daishi and Fudo Myoo are also enshrined, allowing visitors to experience the worldview of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. Visitors can clasp their hands together in front of the main hall and offer quiet prayers.
Prayer Wheel
Within the temple grounds, there is a prayer wheel (mani wheel), commonly seen in Tibetan Buddhism. A prayer wheel is a cylindrical ritual implement containing scriptures, and it is believed that rotating it grants the same merit as reciting the scriptures.
The prayer wheel at Kikenji Temple is a relatively rare example among Shingon Buddhist temples and attracts the attention of visitors. It is believed that one rotation sends prayers to Kannon (Avalokiteshvara), and many visitors spin it.
Atmosphere of the Temple Grounds
Despite its location adjacent to Atsuta Shrine, Kikenji Temple maintains its own unique tranquility. Although the grounds are small, the carefully maintained plants and stone paths allow visitors to enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons.
Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season, the temple grounds are beautifully colored, enhancing the enjoyment of visiting. In contrast to the vast sacred grounds of Atsuta Shrine, the intimate and warm atmosphere is the charm of Kikenji Temple.
Goshuin (Temple Seal) Information
Types of Goshuin
At Kikenji Temple, you can receive both a regular goshuin and a goshuin for the Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage.
Regular Goshuin: The center features the calligraphy of “Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva” or “Holy Kannon,” and the temple’s seal is stamped. Typically, “Homage” is stamped in the upper right corner, and “Unryuzan Kikenji Temple” in the lower left corner.
Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage Goshuin: The center features the calligraphy of “Kobo Daishi,” the upper right corner reads “Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage,” and the left side reads “Temple No. 14.”
Receiving Goshuin (Temple Stamps)
Goshuin are given at the main hall or the temple office (kuri). After your visit, please inform the staff and leave your goshuincho (stamp book). The offering fee (goshuin fee) is generally around 300 yen, but it’s best to confirm beforehand.
When requesting a goshuin, it is customary to first complete your prayers at the main hall. Also, if the head priest is absent, pre-written goshuin may be available.
About Goshuincho
A special goshuincho for the Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters pilgrimage is available, and it is recommended for those undertaking the pilgrimage to use this special goshuincho. Of course, a regular goshuincho is also acceptable.
Access and Parking Information
Access by Train
From Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line “Jingumae Station”: Approximately 5 minutes on foot
Exit the west exit of the station and head towards the main gate of Atsuta Jingu Shrine. Kikenji Temple is located immediately south of the main gate. From Tenmacho Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Meijo Line: Approximately 3 minutes on foot.
Exit from Exit 1 and head north towards the main gate of Atsuta Shrine. Kikenji Temple is located across the Jingumae intersection.
From Jingunishi Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Meijo Line: Approximately 7 minutes on foot.
Exit from Exit 2 and head east towards the main gate of Atsuta Shrine.
Access by Car
From Horita Exit on the Nagoya Expressway: Approximately 5 minutes
From Yobitsugi Exit on the Nagoya Expressway: Approximately 5 minutes
The temple is easily accessible from National Route 1 (Tokai-dori) and National Route 19. Please enter “Kikenji Temple” or the address “2-4-10 Jingu, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya City” into your car navigation system.
Parking
Since parking at Kikenji Temple is limited, we recommend using the Atsuta Shrine parking lot (free, approximately 400 spaces) if you are visiting by car. It’s about a 5-minute walk from the Atsuta Shrine parking lot to Kikenji Temple.
Atsuta Shrine has three parking lots: the main gate parking lot, the east gate parking lot, and the west gate parking lot. The main gate parking lot is the closest to Kikenji Temple. However, it gets very crowded during the New Year’s period and festivals, so we recommend using public transportation.
Nearby Coin Parking
There are several coin parking lots around Atsuta Shrine. These are convenient for short visits.
Manners and Precautions for Visiting
Proper Way to Visit
- Bow at the Main Gate: Bow before passing through the main gate to compose yourself.
- Purify at the Water Basin: If there is a water basin, purify your hands and mouth.
- Pray at the Main Hall: Place your offering in front of the main hall, and quietly clasp your hands together in prayer. In Shingon Buddhism, the mantra “Namu Daishi Henjo Kongo” is sometimes chanted.
- Strolling the Temple Grounds: After praying, take a leisurely stroll around the temple grounds and experience things like the prayer wheels.
- Bowing at the Temple Gate: When leaving, bow at the temple gate before leaving the grounds.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds, but photography inside the main hall or of Buddha statues may be prohibited. It is recommended to check before taking photos or to take them discreetly. Also, please be considerate of other visitors.
Visiting Hours
Kikenji Temple is generally open for worship during the day, but if you wish to receive a Goshuin (temple stamp) or prayers, it is recommended to visit between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Since the head priest may be absent, it is advisable to call ahead to confirm if you are certain to receive a Goshuin.
Nearby Attractions and Recommended Spots
Atsuta Shrine
Located right next to Kikenji Temple, Atsuta Shrine is a historically significant shrine dedicated to the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (Grass-Cutting Sword), one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan. A representative tourist spot in Nagoya, it attracts approximately 7 million visitors annually. Within its vast grounds, in addition to the main shrine, numerous subsidiary shrines are scattered throughout.
When visiting Kikenji Temple, we highly recommend also visiting Atsuta Shrine. You can enjoy the atmosphere of both a shrine and a temple.
Shiratori Garden
Located about a 15-minute walk south of Atsuta Shrine, Shiratori Garden is one of the largest Japanese gardens in the Chubu region. A beautiful pond-centered strolling garden spreads across approximately 3.7 hectares, offering beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
Especially during the autumn foliage season, many tourists visit, and you can even enjoy matcha tea in the tea room while admiring the garden.
Shiratori Garden ### Atsuta Horai-ken (Hitsumabushi)
Located in front of the gates of Atsuta Shrine is Atsuta Horai-ken, a famous restaurant specializing in Nagoya’s famous “hitsumabushi.” Founded in 1873 (Meiji 6), this long-established restaurant serves exquisite hitsumabushi made with fragrant, grilled eel.
Enjoying Nagoya’s gourmet cuisine after visiting the shrine is highly recommended. However, as it is a popular restaurant, there may be a waiting time.
Atsuta Shrine Park
This park, located west of Atsuta Shrine, features sports facilities such as a baseball field and tennis courts. Its lush green environment makes it a popular spot for local residents to relax, stroll, and jog.
Danpusan Kofun (Tumulus)
This is the largest keyhole-shaped burial mound in the Tokai region, located within Atsuta Shrine Park. Boasting a length of approximately 151 meters, it is believed to have been constructed between the late 5th and early 6th centuries. Visitors can climb to the top of the tumulus, experiencing a sense of historical romance.
Annual Events at Kikenji Temple
Main Events
First Three Days of the New Year: The temple is bustling with visitors for their first shrine visit of the year. Many people visit to offer prayers for the new year.
Spring Equinox Service: A memorial service for ancestors is held during the spring equinox.
Autumn Equinox Service: A similar memorial service is held during the autumn equinox.
Memorial Service for Kobo Daishi: A memorial service is held around March 21st, the anniversary of Kobo Daishi’s death, to commemorate him.
Special services and prayers may be held during these events. If you wish to participate, it is recommended to inquire with the temple in advance.
Pilgrimage to the Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage Sites of Nagoya
How to Enjoy the Pilgrimage
Starting your pilgrimage to the Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage Sites of Nagoya, with Kikenji Temple as the fourteenth site, is one option. By visiting all 21 temples, you can deeply experience the history and culture of Nagoya City.
Each temple has a different principal deity and history, and through the pilgrimage, you can learn about the teachings of Shingon Buddhism and the achievements of Kobo Daishi. There’s also the enjoyment of collecting temple stamps, and the sense of accomplishment upon completing the pilgrimage is exceptional.
To the Next Temple
After visiting Kikenji Temple, the 14th temple, the route continues to the 15th temple. Since the temples are scattered throughout Nagoya City, it’s possible to visit multiple temples in one day.
Maps and guides for the pilgrimage are available at each temple and at the Nagoya City Tourist Information Center. Planning your pilgrimage carefully will allow you to efficiently visit all the temples.
The Charm and Summary of Visiting Kikenji Temple
Kikenji Temple, while located right next to Atsuta Shrine, one of Nagoya’s most representative tourist spots, possesses a unique tranquil atmosphere and a deep history. The faith in the Eleven-Faced Kannon, associated with the legend of the Rain-Bringing Kannon, its role as the 14th temple on the Nagoya Twenty-One Great Masters Pilgrimage, and its history of being preserved and passed down through generations despite the ravages of war, deeply move visitors.
By extending your visit slightly from Atsuta Shrine, you can experience the atmosphere of a temple, distinct from a shrine, making for a more fulfilling pilgrimage. For those collecting temple stamps, those interested in pilgrimages, and those seeking quiet tranquility, Kikenji Temple is an ideal place.
When visiting Atsuta Ward in Nagoya City, be sure to stop by Kikenji Temple, experience the compassion of the Eleven-Faced Kannon, spin the prayer wheel, and spend time in the peaceful temple grounds to calm your mind. It will surely be a memorable pilgrimage experience.
Location: 2-4-10 Jingū, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture
Phone: 052-671-0916
Access: 5-minute walk from Meitetsu “Jingūmae Station”, 3-minute walk from Subway “Tenmacho Station”
Admission Fee: Free
Parking: Atsuta Jingū parking lot available (free)
May your visit to Kikenji Temple be a time of enrichment for all.
