Complete Guide to Mandara-ji Temples | A Thorough Explanation of the History, Goshuin (Temple Seals), and Wisteria Viewing Spots of the Two Major Sacred Sites in Aichi and Kagawa
While there are several temples named “Mandara-ji” in Japan, the most famous are Nichirinzan Mandara-ji in Konan City, Aichi Prefecture, and Gahaishizan Mandara-ji in Zentsuji City, Kagawa Prefecture. The former is famous for its wisteria, while the latter attracts many visitors as a pilgrimage site of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. This article provides a detailed explanation of these two Mandara-ji temples, including their history, cultural assets, highlights, and access methods.
About Nichirinzan Mandara-ji Temple in Konan City, Aichi Prefecture
History as an Ancient Temple of the Seizan Jodo Sect
Nichirinzan Mandara-ji Temple is a temple of the Seizan Jodo sect located in the northern part of Konan City, Aichi Prefecture, and is affectionately known as “Hibo no Mandara-ji.” It was founded in 1321 (Genko 1) by the monk Hokai at the request of Emperor Go-Daigo. With a history of over 700 years, it has been the most prestigious sacred site in the Obikita region, attracting the faith of the local people.
The Seizan Jodo sect is a branch of the Jodo sect, founded by the monk Shoku (Nishizan Shonin), a disciple of Honen Shonin, and preaches rebirth in paradise through chanting the Buddha’s name. As a central temple of this sect, Mandara-ji Temple has produced many monks and played a central role in the region’s Buddhist culture.
Vast Temple Grounds and Buildings
Mandara-ji Temple’s grounds span approximately 13,000 tsubo (about 43,000 square meters), and its magnificent layout features a central main hall with a cypress bark roof, surrounded by the priests’ quarters, large study hall, small study hall, Mandara Hall, Jizo Hall, bell tower, treasure house, middle gate, and south gate (Yarai Gate), all with their roofs lining the grounds.
The main hall is designated a National Important Cultural Property and is a valuable building that preserves the architectural style of the Muromachi period. It is characterized by its cypress bark roof and elegantly curved roofline, and houses the principal image of Amida Buddha.
The study hall is also a National Important Cultural Property and holds an important position in architectural history as a representative example of early Edo period study hall architecture. The space, where dignified rooms and beautiful gardens harmonize, represents the pinnacle of temple architecture of that era.
Mandara-ji Temple Park: A Famous Wisteria Spot
The main reason Mandara-ji Temple has become nationally known is its famous wisteria blossoms. Mandara-ji Temple Park, developed with a portion of the temple grounds donated to Konan City, is designed as a strolling garden, where magnificent wisteria blossoms bloom from late April to early May.
The park boasts approximately 60 varieties and 120 wisteria trees, displaying a riot of colors including purple, white, and pink. The sight of wisteria clusters, some several meters long, swaying in the wind is particularly breathtaking. The annual “Konan Wisteria Festival” attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists from within and outside the prefecture.
Because early-blooming and late-blooming varieties are strategically placed, visitors can enjoy the wisteria blossoms for about a month. Walking beneath the wisteria trellises, enveloped in their sweet fragrance, leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Cultural Properties Held by the Temple
Besides the main hall and study hall, Mandara-ji Temple possesses numerous valuable cultural properties.
- Wooden Seated Amida Buddha Statue (Important Cultural Property): A masterpiece from the Kamakura period, showcasing the skill of a master Buddhist sculptor.
- Painting on Silk: Amida Buddha and His Assembly Welcoming the Deceased: A painting depicting Amida Buddha descending from the Pure Land to welcome the deceased.
- Ancient Documents: Valuable records from the medieval to early modern periods that tell the history of the temple.
- Temple Bell: A bell cast during the Edo period, still producing a beautiful sound today.
These cultural properties may be available for viewing on special occasions. We recommend contacting the temple in advance.
Access to Mandara-ji Temple in Konan City, Aichi Prefecture
Location: 202 Teramachi, Maehibocho, Konan City, Aichi Prefecture
Access by Train:
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Konan Station on the Meitetsu Inuyama Line
- 5 minutes on foot from the Mandara-ji bus stop (Meitetsu Bus from Konan Station)
Access by Car:
- Approximately 20 minutes from Komaki IC on the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 25 minutes from Ichinomiya IC on the Meishin Expressway
- Temporary parking is available during the Wisteria Festival
Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (reservations required for entry into the main hall)
Admission Fee: Grounds are free (special viewings may be charged)
Telephone: 0587-55-2321
About Gahaishi-san Mandara-ji Temple in Zentsuji City, Kagawa Prefecture
Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Temple No. 72
Gahaishizan Mandaraji Temple is a Shingon sect temple of the Zentsuji school located in Yoshihara-cho, Zentsuji City, Kagawa Prefecture, and is the 72nd temple on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Its mountain name is Gahaishizan, its temple name is Enmeiin, and its principal image is Dainichi Nyorai (Vairocana Buddha).
Located at the foot of the “Gogakuzan” mountain range, where five mountains—Kagami-yama, Nakayama, Gahaishi-yama, Fude-yama, and Koshiki-yama—are lined up in a row from west to east, it is a place deeply revered as a site associated with Kobo Daishi Kukai.
The Story of Kobo Daishi and His Mother, Tamayori-gozen
Mandaraji Temple is said to have been founded in 596 AD (Suiko 4), making it the oldest temple among the Shikoku pilgrimage sites. Initially called “Sesaka-dera,” it was built as the family temple of the Saeki clan, ancestors of Kobo Daishi.
After returning from Tang China, Kobo Daishi Kukai visited this temple to pray for the repose of his mother, Tamayori Gozen. It is said that Kukai enshrined the mandala he brought back from Tang China, spent approximately three years building the temple, and renamed it “Mandara-ji” (Mandara Temple).
Particularly moving is the legend that while Kukai was practicing asceticism on the summit of Mount Gahaishi, his feelings for his mother intensified, and he bowed towards Zentsu-ji Temple, where his mother resided. This story is said to be the origin of the mountain’s name, “Gahaishi-yama” (Mountain where one bows to one’s teacher). This story, demonstrating his deep filial piety, touches the hearts of many visitors.
Historical Sites Associated with Saigyo Hoshi
Saigyo Hoshi, a poet of the late Heian period, is known to have frequently visited Mandara-ji Temple. The spacious temple grounds are dotted with historical sites associated with Saigyo, including a monument inscribed with a poem attributed to him and a stone where he is said to have sat.
Saigyo deeply revered Kobo Daishi and is said to have stayed at Mandara-ji Temple for an extended period during his pilgrimage to Shikoku, composing many waka poems there. It is a temple of great interest to literature lovers.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
The Main Hall houses the principal image, a statue of Dainichi Nyorai. Dainichi Nyorai is the fundamental Buddha of Esoteric Buddhism, representing the very truth of the universe. Visitors can pray in a solemn atmosphere.
The Daishi Hall enshrines a statue of Kobo Daishi, and pilgrims can be seen earnestly chanting sutras. During the Shikoku pilgrimage, it is customary to offer sutras at both the Main Hall and the Daishi Hall.
The Kannon Hall houses a beautiful standing statue of the Holy Kannon Bodhisattva (158cm) carved from cypress wood, its graceful form captivating many visitors.
The Ceiling Painting in the Main Hall was recently restored, and now features vibrant paintings of flowers and birds covering the entire ceiling. It is a work of art well worth admiring.
Goshuin (Temple Seal) and Nokyo (Sutra Receiving)
As a pilgrimage site of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Mandara-ji Temple offers Goshuin (temple seals) and Nokyo (sutra receiving). There are two types: one for the Main Hall and one for the Daishi Hall, each with ink writing and a red seal.
At the Nokyo office, in addition to inscribing in Goshuin notebooks, they also accept stamping on hanging scrolls and white robes. Nokyo hours are usually 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but these may vary depending on the season, so it is recommended to check in advance.
The Nokyo fee is generally 300 yen, but the price differs for hanging scrolls and white robes.
Access to Mandara-ji Temple in Zentsuji City, Kagawa Prefecture
Location: 1380-1 Yoshihara-cho, Zentsuji City, Kagawa Prefecture
Access by Train:
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Dosan Line “Zentsuji Station”
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Kotoden Railway “Zentsuji Station”
Access by Car:
- Approximately 5 minutes from Takamatsu Expressway “Zentsuji IC”
- Parking: Approximately 20 spaces for regular cars (free)
Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Temple Nokyosho)
Admission Fee: Free for the temple grounds
Telephone: 0877-63-0072
Origin of the Temple Name, Mandara-ji
“Mandara” is a transliteration of the Sanskrit word “mandala,” meaning “that which possesses the essence.” In Buddhism, particularly Esoteric Buddhism, a mandala refers to an image that visually represents the truth of the universe and the world of Buddha.
The most famous are the “Vajradhatu Mandala” and the “Garbhadhatu Mandala,” which are visual representations of the teachings of the fundamental Esoteric Buddhist scriptures, the *Vajrasekhara Sutra* and the *Mahavairocana Sutra*. Kobo Daishi Kukai brought both mandalas back from Tang China, laying the foundation for Esoteric Buddhism in Japan.
At Mandara-ji Temple in Aichi Prefecture, the “Amida Raigo-zu” (Amida’s Welcoming) mandala, a Pure Land Buddhist mandala, is highly valued, while at Mandara-ji Temple in Kagawa Prefecture, Esoteric Buddhist mandalas are considered important, reflecting the characteristics of each sect.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting Temples
Basic Visiting Etiquette
Both temples are highly prestigious, so please observe the following manners when visiting.
- A Bow at the Temple Gate: Bow before entering the temple grounds to compose yourself.
- Purification at the Water Basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order.
- Worship at the Main Hall: Place your offering in the offering box and bow with clasped hands.
- Respect: Be quiet on the temple grounds and be considerate of other worshippers.
- Photography: Photography is generally prohibited inside the hall. Consideration is also required when taking photographs on the temple grounds.
Guidelines for the Shikoku Pilgrimage (Mandara-ji Temple, Kagawa)
When visiting the 88 temples of Shikoku, the spirit of “Dōgyō Ninin” (two traveling together) is important. This means always walking with Kobo Daishi and is considered the fundamental spirit of the pilgrimage.
Wearing pilgrimage attire such as a white robe, straw hat, and walking stick can provide a deeper pilgrimage experience. However, it is possible to visit the temples without the attire.
Nearby Attractions and Tourist Information
Around Konan City, Aichi Prefecture
- Hotei Buddha: The largest Buddha statue in Japan (approximately 10 minutes by car)
- Konan City Historical and Folk Museum: A facility where you can learn about the local history
- Suitopia Konan: A complex facility with an observation tower and heated swimming pool
Konan City is located north of Nagoya City and has convenient transportation, making it easy to visit in conjunction with Nagoya sightseeing.
Kagawa Prefecture, Zentsuji City Area
- Zentsuji (Temple No. 75): The head temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, the birthplace of Kobo Daishi (approx. 10-minute walk)
- Shusshakaji (Temple No. 73): The next temple, approximately 1-hour walk
- Kanakuraji (Temple No. 76): Approximately 10-minute drive
- Kotohira-gu Shrine (Konpira-san): A famous shrine known as “Sanuki’s Konpira-san” (approx. 15-minute drive)
Zentsuji City is a place associated with Kobo Daishi, with many historical sites and temples concentrated there, making it one of the central locations for the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Annual Events and Special Openings
Mandara-ji Temple, Aichi Prefecture
- Konan Wisteria Festival (Late April to Early May): The largest event, featuring nighttime illuminations.
- New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing (December 31st): Open to the public.
- Spring and Autumn Equinox Memorial Services: Memorial services for ancestors.
Mandara-ji Temple, Kagawa Prefecture
- First Three Days of the New Year: Bustling with worshippers for the first shrine visit of the year.
- Spring and Autumn Grand Festivals: Memorial services and Goma fire rituals are held.
- Kobo Daishi Memorial Service (21st of every month): Monthly memorial service.
Summary: The Charms of Two Mandara-ji Temples
Nichirinzan Mandara-ji Temple in Konan City, Aichi Prefecture, and Gahaishizan Mandara-ji Temple in Zentsuji City, Kagawa Prefecture, share the same name “Mandara-ji,” yet each possesses distinct charms.
Aichi’s Mandara-ji Temple boasts a history of over 700 years as a prestigious temple of the Seizan Jodo sect, and is particularly renowned nationwide as a wisteria viewing spot. Its buildings, including the main hall and study hall, which are designated as important national cultural properties, represent the pinnacle of Japanese temple architecture. During the spring wisteria festival, the temple grounds are adorned with colorful wisteria blossoms, captivating visitors.
On the other hand, Kagawa’s Mandara-ji Temple is the 72nd temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, attracting the faith of pilgrims. This temple is steeped in history and literary romance, featuring the story of the deep bond between Kobo Daishi Kukai and his mother, Tamayori Gozen, and historical sites associated with the monk Saigyo. Located in Zentsuji City, the birthplace of Kobo Daishi, it also serves as a center of esoteric Buddhist culture.
Both Mandara-ji temples are precious institutions that convey the spirituality and culture cultivated over a long history. The tranquility of admiring wisteria blossoms and the pilgrimage experience of the Shikoku Pilgrimage will remind you of the “richness of spirit” that modern people often forget.
When visiting Aichi, be sure to visit during wisteria season; when visiting Kagawa, consider visiting as part of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. You will surely experience the unique charm of each temple and the depth of Japanese Buddhist culture.
