Zentsu-ji Temple Complete Guide: History, Highlights, and Visiting Information for the Birthplace of Kobo Daishi Kukai
About Zentsu-ji Temple – Overview of the Birthplace of Kobo Daishi Kukai
Zentsū-ji Temple is the head temple of the Zentsu-ji branch of the Shingon sect, located in Zentsu-ji City, Kagawa Prefecture. Also known as Byōbugaura Gogakusan and Tanjōin, it is the 75th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, attracting many pilgrims from all over Japan.
Because Kobo Daishi Kukai was born here on June 15, 774 (Hōki 5), it holds special significance as the “Birthplace of Kobo Daishi Kukai.” Along with Kongōbu-ji Temple on Mount Kōya and Tō-ji Temple in Kyoto, it is counted as one of the “Three Great Sacred Sites of Kobo Daishi” and is one of the most important sacred sites in the Shingon sect.
The temple grounds are divided into two areas: the East Precinct (Garan), the site of the temple’s founding, and the West Precinct (Tanjoin), believed to be the birthplace of Kukai. Each area features buildings and historical sites with distinct characteristics. The principal image is Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), and it is also the first temple on the pilgrimage route of the eighteen main temples of the Shingon sect.
History of Zentsu-ji Temple – From Founding to the Present
Kukai and His Father, Saeki Yoshimichi
The history of Zentsu-ji Temple is deeply intertwined with Saeki Yoshimichi, the father of Kobo Daishi Kukai. The Saeki clan was a powerful local family in Sanuki Province and ruled this area. Kukai was born in 774 (Hoki 5) at the residence of the Saeki clan.
After Kukai returned from Tang China, in 807 (Daido 2), he built a temple on the site of his father’s residence to commemorate him, marking the beginning of Zentsu-ji Temple. The temple’s name, “Zentsūji,” originates from the founder’s father’s name.
Original Temple Layout
At the time of its founding, Zentsuji boasted a magnificent temple layout. The main hall, lecture hall, five-story pagoda, and bell tower were neatly arranged, a scale unparalleled in Shikoku at the time. Even today, the original layout remains in the East Precinct, preserving the appearance of an ancient temple.
History of War and Reconstruction
Throughout its long history, Zentsuji has suffered numerous wars. In particular, in 1558, many buildings were destroyed by fire during the campaigns of Miyoshi Jitsukyu. Later, during the Edo period, reconstruction gradually progressed, including the rebuilding of the main hall in 1699.
In the Meiji era, the 11th Division was established in Zentsuji City, and it developed as a military city. During this period, Zentsu-ji Temple welcomed many people as a temple town and an important stop on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds – East Precinct (Garan) and West Precinct (Tanjoin)
Main Buildings of the East Precinct (Garan)
Main Hall
The Main Hall is the central building of Zentsu-ji Temple and houses the principal image, Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha). The current Main Hall was rebuilt in 1699 (Genroku 12) and preserves the architectural style of the mid-Edo period. Inside the hall, in addition to the seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai, Nikko Bosatsu (Sunlight Bodhisattva) and Gekko Bosatsu (Moonlight Bodhisattva) are enshrined as attendant deities.
Five-Storied Pagoda
The Five-Storied Pagoda, a symbol of Zentsu-ji Temple, is a magnificent structure boasting a height of approximately 43 meters. The current pagoda is the fourth iteration, rebuilt between 1902 and 1912, and is known as the third largest wooden five-story pagoda in Japan.
While the pagoda is usually only open to the public from the outside, special openings are held several times a year. During these special openings, visitors can view the interior of the first floor, seeing murals and Buddha statues that express the Buddhist worldview up close.
Jogyo-do and Shaka-do
The Jogyo-do is a hall dedicated to Amida Buddha and is a place where the Jogyo-zanmai ascetic practice is performed. The Shaka-do houses Shakyamuni Buddha, and both halls welcome visitors as important buildings of the East Precinct.
Sacred Sites of the West Precinct (Tanjo-in)
Miei-do (Daishi-do)
The Miei-do is the central building of the West Precinct. This hall is said to be the actual birthplace of Kobo Daishi Kukai and is also called the Daishi Hall. A statue of Kobo Daishi is enshrined inside, and many worshippers offer prayers here.
Below the Mikage-do Hall is a dark corridor called the “Kaidan Meguri” (ordination platform pilgrimage). It is believed that walking through this corridor in complete darkness removes worldly desires and purifies the mind. The experience of walking through the approximately 100-meter-long corridor, holding onto the walls, is truly a spiritual discipline.
Goma-do Hall and Komyo-den Hall
Goma rituals are performed daily in the Goma-do Hall, where wooden prayer sticks inscribed with the wishes of worshippers are burned. The Komyo-den Hall houses a sutra copying office and amulet shop where you can receive Goshuin (temple stamps) and amulets. Reception for memorial services is also handled here.
A Great Camphor Tree Over a Thousand Years Old
In the West Precinct, there is a great camphor tree said to have been planted by Kukai himself. The tree is said to be over a thousand years old, and its trunk circumference is approximately 10 meters. This large camphor tree is known as a power spot in Zentsu-ji Temple, and many visitors come to feel a sense of sacredness just by standing before it.
Treasure Hall – National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties
The Zentsu-ji Temple Treasure Hall houses and displays precious treasures that have been preserved and passed down through a long history.
National Treasure “One Character, One Buddha: The Lotus Sutra Preface”
The most important treasure owned by Zentsu-ji Temple is the “One Character, One Buddha: The Lotus Sutra Preface,” which is designated as a National Treasure. A work from the late Heian period, it is a decorated sutra in which a small Buddha image is depicted for each character of the Lotus Sutra. The exquisite Buddha images and sutra text, depicted in gold and silver paint, represent the pinnacle of Buddhist art at the time and are of extremely high value.
Important Cultural Properties and Temple Treasures
The Treasure Hall also houses numerous Buddhist statues, Buddhist paintings, and ancient documents designated as Important Cultural Properties. The Treasure Hall houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, including calligraphy attributed to Kukai himself, paintings and calligraphy by successive high-ranking monks, and Buddhist art from the medieval to early modern periods.
Admission to the Treasure Hall is charged, and combined tickets are available that include entry to the East Precinct’s Main Hall, Jogyo-do Hall, and Shaka-do Hall. To gain a deeper understanding of Zentsu-ji Temple’s history and culture, a visit to the Treasure Hall is highly recommended.
Shikoku Pilgrimage and Zentsu-ji Temple – The Significance of Temple No. 75
What is the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage?
The Shikoku Pilgrimage is one of Japan’s most representative pilgrimage routes, visiting 88 temples in Shikoku associated with Kobo Daishi (Kukai). Known as the “Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage,” it is classified into four categories: the Dojo of Awakening (Tokushima), the Dojo of Training (Kochi), the Dojo of Enlightenment (Ehime), and the Dojo of Nirvana (Kagawa).
Zentsuji Temple holds a particularly important position among the pilgrimage sites in Kagawa Prefecture, which are considered the training grounds for Nirvana. Due to its unique sacredness as the birthplace of Kobo Daishi, many pilgrims visit with deep emotion.
Seven Sacred Sites in Zentsuji City
Zentsuji City contains five sacred sites: Mandara-ji Temple (No. 72), Shusshaka-ji Temple (No. 73), Kozan-ji Temple (No. 74), Zentsuji Temple (No. 75), and Kanakura-ji Temple (No. 76). Furthermore, adding Kaigan-ji Temple and Kaigan-ji Okunoin (Okunoin) as extra sacred sites brings the total to seven sacred sites within Zentsuji City alone.
This is the second highest number after Matsuyama City’s eight sacred sites, demonstrating Zentsuji City’s extremely important position on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Many pilgrims stay in Zentsuji City for several days, visiting these sacred sites.
The Spirit of Hospitality
One of the defining characteristics of the Shikoku Pilgrimage is the culture of “Osettai” (hospitality). The custom of local people providing pilgrims with food, drinks, and rest areas free of charge continues to this day. This spirit of hospitality is also deeply rooted around Zentsu-ji Temple, where a culture of warmly welcoming pilgrims is firmly established.
Annual Events – Kobo Daishi’s Birthday Celebration and Major Memorial Services
Kobo Daishi’s Birthday Celebration (June 15th)
The most important event at Zentsu-ji Temple is the “Kobo Daishi’s Birthday Celebration,” held annually on June 15th. This memorial service commemorates the birth of Kobo Daishi Kukai on June 15th, 774 (Hoki 5), and attracts many worshippers from all over Japan.
On the day of the celebration, a grand memorial service is held, and a festival called “Daishi-ichi” (Daishi Market) is held on the temple grounds, with many stalls lining the streets. The entire region is enveloped in a celebratory mood, making it the busiest day of the year for Zentsu-ji Temple.
Shari-ko (January)
Every January, the “Shari-ko” ceremony is held. This is a Buddhist service to honor the relics (sarira) of Shakyamuni Buddha, and it provides an opportunity to view the precious Buddha relics preserved at Zentsu-ji Temple.
Monthly Festival on the 21st
On the 21st of each month, the anniversary of Kobo Daishi’s death, a festival is held. This day, affectionately known as “Odaishi-san,” sees more visitors than usual, and a Goma fire ritual and sermons are held. The “Hatsu-Daishi” (first Daishi) on January 21st and the “Shimai-Daishi” (last Daishi) on December 21st are particularly lively, marking the beginning and end of the year.
Nirvana Cherry Blossom Blooming Season (Spring)
Within the grounds of Zentsu-ji Temple, there is a cherry tree called the “Nirvana Cherry Blossom.” This cherry tree is named as such because it blooms around February 15th, the day of Buddha’s death. Known as an early-blooming cherry tree, it’s a symbol of spring’s arrival at Zentsu-ji Temple.
Special Opening of the Five-Storied Pagoda
Several times a year, the interior of the first floor of the five-storied pagoda is specially opened to the public. While normally only the exterior is viewable, the special opening offers a rare opportunity to see the interior murals and Buddha statues up close. The opening dates are announced on the Zentsu-ji Temple official website, so it’s recommended to check before your visit.
Iroha Kaikan Temple Lodging – A Stay Experience at Zentsu-ji Temple
What is a Temple Lodging?
Zentsu-ji Temple has a temple lodging called “Iroha Kaikan.” Originally, temple lodgings were accommodations for monks and pilgrims, but now they are open to general tourists as well.
At Iroha Kaikan, you can participate in morning prayers and enjoy vegetarian cuisine. Staying at a temple offers a unique experience that allows you to delve deeper into Buddhist culture.
How to Use the Temple Lodging
Reservations for Iroha Kaikan are accepted by phone or online. It gets particularly crowded on weekends and during events, so early booking is recommended. Accommodation rates are relatively reasonable, including two meals per night, and it is widely used by pilgrims and tourists.
Staying at the temple lodging allows you to enjoy special moments that you can’t experience on a day trip, such as strolling through the tranquil temple grounds in the early morning or admiring the illuminated five-story pagoda at night.
Access – How to Get to Zentsuji Temple
Access by Train
From JR Zentsuji Station
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot
- Approximately 5 minutes by taxi
The nearest station is Zentsuji Station on the JR Dosan Line. From Takamatsu Station, it takes approximately 30 minutes by express train and approximately 50 minutes by local train. From the station to Zentsuji Temple, you won’t get lost if you follow the signs. ### Access by Car
From the Takamatsu Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from Zentsuji Interchange
Approximately 20 minutes by car from Takamatsu Airport, and approximately 40 minutes from central Takamatsu. The temple grounds have a free parking lot for visitors, accommodating approximately 200 regular-sized cars.
By Bus
A community bus also operates from Zentsuji Station, but the number of services is limited, so it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Visiting Information – Visiting Hours, Fees, and Estimated Time Required
Visiting Hours
- Temple Grounds: Open all day (Free)
- Main Hall & Treasure Hall: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Circumambulation of the Kaidan: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Fees
- Temple Grounds: Free
- East Precinct (Main Hall, Jogyodo Hall, Shakado Hall) & Treasure Hall: Adults 500 yen, High School Students 300 yen, Elementary & Junior High School Students 200 yen
- Circumambulation of the Kaidan: Adults 500 yen, Elementary & Junior High School Students 300 yen
- Combined Ticket (East Precinct, Treasure Hall, Circumambulation of the Kaidan): Adults 1,000 yen
Estimated Time Required
- Visiting the Temple Grounds Only: 30 minutes – 1 hour
- Visiting the East and West Precincts at a leisurely pace: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Entire tour including the Treasure Hall: 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours
Temple Stamp Office (Goshuin)
You can receive a temple stamp (Goshuin) at the temple stamp office located in the Komyoden Hall of the West Precinct. Reception hours are 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Those with a Shikoku Pilgrimage stamp book should not forget to obtain the stamp for Temple No. 75.
Zentsuji City Sightseeing – Nearby Spots
View of Gogakusan Mountain
To the west of Zentsuji Temple lie five mountains: Koshikiyama, Fudeyama, Gahaishiyama, Nakayama, and Higamiyama. These are collectively known as “Gogakusan” (Five Mountains). Zentsuji Temple’s mountain name, “Byobuura Gogakusan,” originates from these five mountains.
In particular, Mt. Gahaishi (481m) is known as the place where Kukai trained in his childhood, and the summit offers a spectacular view of the Sanuki Plain and the Seto Inland Sea.
Former Zentsuji Kaikosha
This military social facility was built when the 11th Division was established during the Meiji era and is now designated as a National Important Cultural Property. As a representative example of Meiji-era Western-style architecture, it is a building of high architectural value.
Local History Museum
The local history museum introduces the history and culture of Zentsuji City, allowing visitors to learn about the city’s development from ancient times to the present day. Exhibits include materials related to Kukai and materials from the time when Zentsuji was a military city.
Gourmet – Zentsuji Specialties
Zentsuji City, part of Kagawa Prefecture known as “Udon Prefecture,” boasts numerous delicious udon noodle restaurants. Furthermore, due to its history as a temple town, it also has many famous shops specializing in vegetarian cuisine and traditional Japanese sweets. Enjoying local cuisine after visiting the temple is also a highlight of sightseeing in Zentsuji.
To Deepen Your Understanding of Zentsuji
The Life of Kobo Daishi Kukai
Knowing about the life of Kobo Daishi Kukai will allow you to enjoy your visit to Zentsuji more deeply.
Kukai was born in this area in 774 (Hoki 5), and his childhood name was Mao. At the age of 15, he went to the capital, and at 18, he entered university. However, he soon became deeply devoted to Buddhism and entered the path of mountain asceticism. At the age of 31, he traveled to Tang China as a member of the Japanese embassy, and at Qinglong Temple in Chang’an, he learned the profound teachings of esoteric Buddhism from Master Huiguo.
After returning to Japan, he devoted himself to spreading Shingon esoteric Buddhism, founded Kongobu-ji Temple on Mount Koya, and was granted To-ji Temple, which became the fundamental training ground for the Shingon sect. Furthermore, he dedicated himself not only to religion but also to education and social work, such as establishing the Shugei Shuchiin, an educational institution.
On March 21, 835 (Jōwa 2), at the age of 62, he entered eternal meditation at Mount Kōya. Afterward, he was given the posthumous title of “Kōbō Daishi,” and is still revered by many as “Odaishi-sama.”
Teachings of Shingon Buddhism
Zentsūji Temple is the head temple of the Zentsuji branch of the Shingon sect. Shingon Buddhism is a branch of esoteric Buddhism introduced from Tang China by Kūkai, and it preaches “Sokushin Jōbutsu” (becoming a Buddha in this very body).
A characteristic of Shingon Buddhism is its practice method called “Sanmitsu Kaji,” which unifies three elements: words (mantras), physical movements (mudras), and mental concentration (contemplation). Visual teachings using mandalas and rituals such as Goma fire ceremonies are also emphasized.
Etiquette for Visiting Zentsu-ji Temple
When visiting Zentsu-ji Temple, please observe the following etiquette:
- Bow at the Temple Gate: When entering the temple grounds, bow at the temple gate before entering.
- Purification at the Water Basin: Purify your hands and mouth before praying.
- Praying at the Main Hall: Join your hands in prayer and pray with sincerity.
- Photography: Photography is prohibited in many areas inside the hall, so please check before taking pictures.
- Respectfulness: The temple grounds are also a place of spiritual training, so please refrain from loud conversations.
Summary – The Significance of Visiting Zentsu-ji Temple
Zentsū-ji Temple is one of the most important sacred sites in Shingon Buddhism, as it is the birthplace of Kūkai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. The temple grounds, with a history of over 1200 years, offer many sights to see, including the main hall, the five-story pagoda, and the Miei-dō (Founder’s Hall). The treasure hall houses valuable cultural artifacts, including national treasures.
As the 75th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Zentsuji Temple attracts many pilgrims and is also gaining attention as a power spot. It offers numerous experiences for purifying the soul, such as the Kaidan Meguri (a pilgrimage through a sacred platform) and the Great Camphor Tree.
Various events are held throughout the year, with the Kobo Daishi Birthday Celebration on June 15th being the most lively event at Zentsuji Temple. Staying at the temple lodging, “Iroha Kaikan,” allows for a deeper immersion into Buddhist culture.
Its convenient location, approximately 40 minutes by car from Takamatsu City and a 15-minute walk from Zentsuji Station, is another attractive feature. When visiting Kagawa Prefecture, why not visit Zentsuji Temple and quietly worship while following in the footsteps of Kobo Daishi Kukai?
An experience at Zentsuji Temple will go beyond mere sightseeing; it will be a valuable opportunity to confront yourself and reflect on your heart. Spend some special time at this place of faith, which has been preserved and passed down for over 1200 years.
