Complete Guide to Rendaiji Temple: A Thorough Explanation of the Exorcism Sacred Site in Kurashiki, Okayama, and the Hot Spring Resort in Shimoda, Shizuoka
While there are several places in Japan named “Rendaiji,” the most famous are Yugasan Rendaiji Temple in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, and the Rendaiji Onsen area in Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture. This article focuses on Yugasan Rendaiji Temple, known as an exorcism sacred site, and provides a detailed explanation of its history, culture, and highlights.
What is Yugasan Rendaiji Temple?: One of Japan’s Three Great Gongen Temples
Yugasan Rendaiji Temple is a special head temple of the Omuro branch of the Shingon sect, located in Kojima, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture. Its mountain name is Yugasan or Yugasan, and it enshrines the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva and Yuga Daigongen as its principal deities.
Position as one of Japan’s Three Great Gongen Temples
Rendaiji Temple is counted as one of Japan’s three great Gongen temples and has attracted many worshippers from all over the country since ancient times as the head temple for warding off evil. Gongen refers to a manifestation of Buddha in a temporary form, and Yuga Daigongen is especially believed to have the power to ward off misfortune and disaster.
It is also known as the 6th temple of the 33 Kannon Pilgrimage of China and the 8th temple of the 108 Kannon Pilgrimage, occupying an important position as a pilgrimage site.
History of Rendaiji Temple: Over 1300 Years
Founded in the Nara Period
Rendaiji Temple was founded approximately 1,300 years ago, during the Nara period. It is said to have been founded by the monk Gyoki Bodhisattva, who is known as a high-ranking monk who developed temples and social projects throughout Japan. The temple, established on the sacred grounds of Mount Yuga, quickly attracted worshippers.
Prosperity in the Edo Period
Approximately 300 years ago, during the Edo period, Rendaiji Temple flourished as the prayer temple of Lord Ikeda, the feudal lord of Bizen Province. Under the patronage of the feudal lord, the temple’s grounds were developed, and many cultural artifacts were accumulated. During this time, Rendaiji Temple established itself as a sacred site for warding off evil, attracting the faith of a wide range of people, from commoners to samurai.
During the Edo period, the custom of “double pilgrimage” emerged, where it became popular to visit both Konpira Shrine in Sanuki Province and Rendaiji Temple on Yuga Mountain. This custom was known as “Konpira-Yuga double pilgrimage,” and visiting only one was considered inauspicious.
From Modern to Contemporary Times
Despite the impact of the Meiji-era separation of Shinto and Buddhism, Rendaiji Temple continued to uphold its tradition as a sacred site for warding off evil. Even today, many worshippers from all over Japan visit the temple during the New Year and in unlucky years to receive prayers for protection against misfortune.
Highlights and Cultural Properties of Rendaiji Temple
Prefectural Designated Important Cultural Property: Guest Hall and Fusuma Paintings
The guest hall of Rendaiji Temple is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture and is a valuable building that conveys the architectural style of the Edo period. Of particular note are the numerous fusuma paintings, including “Bamboo and Chicken,” which is said to be the last work of Maruyama Okyo.
Maruyama Okyo was a painter who was active from the mid to late Edo period and is known for his realistic style. The fusuma paintings at Rendaiji Temple are works from Okyo’s later years, and their artistic value is extremely high. Many other fusuma paintings can also be viewed in the guest hall, allowing visitors to experience Edo period art up close.
Japan’s Largest Fudo Myoo for Warding Off Evil
The main hall houses what is said to be Japan’s largest Fudo Myoo for warding off evil. Fudo Myoo is one of the Myoo in Esoteric Buddhism and is worshipped as a Buddha who cuts off worldly desires and protects practitioners. The large and miraculous Fudo Myoo statue at Rendaiji Temple is renowned for its size and power, attracting many worshippers seeking protection from misfortune.
It is enshrined in a building called the Shin’o-den, and worshippers ascend stairs to reach the main hall. Standing before the statue, one is overwhelmed by its imposing presence and sacred atmosphere.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Rendaiji Temple’s grounds are located on the slopes of Mt. Yuga, offering a tranquil space surrounded by nature. Stone steps lead to the temple grounds, allowing visitors to cleanse their minds as they ascend. From the grounds, one can enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and the townscape of Kojima, appreciating the scenery throughout the seasons.
In addition to the main hall, guest hall, and Shin’o-den, other buildings such as the bell tower and goma hall are situated within the grounds, each bearing the weight of history and faith.
Exorcism Prayer and How to Visit
About Exorcism Prayer
At Rendaiji Temple, exorcism prayers are performed daily to ward off misfortune and disaster. Many people visit to receive prayers, not only those entering their unlucky years, but also at life’s milestones and new beginnings.
Unlucky years are considered to be 25, 42, and 61 for men, and 19, 33, and 37 for women (according to the traditional Japanese age counting system). The years 42 for men and 33 for women are considered particularly important as major unlucky years. At Rendaiji Temple, prayers are offered to the principal deity of exorcism, Yuga Daigongen, to ward off misfortune and pray for a safe year.
How to Visit
- From the Parking Lot to the Approach: Rendaiji Temple has a parking lot for visitors. Temporary parking lots are also opened during busy periods such as New Year’s.
- Climbing the Stone Steps: Calm your mind as you climb the steps of the approach. Although there are many stairs, climbing them slowly will prepare you for your visit.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Before heading to the main hall, purify your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Visit the main hall: Visit the main hall, which enshrines the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva.
- Visit the Shin’ō-den: Pray for protection from evil at the Shin’ō-den, which enshrines the Great Fudo Myoo for warding off evil.
- Visit the guest hall: If time permits, view the fusuma paintings by Maruyama Ōkyo in the guest hall, a prefecturally designated important cultural property.
Best time to visit
Rendaiji Temple is open for visits throughout the year, but it is especially crowded during New Year’s, Setsubun (bean-throwing festival), and during unlucky years. The first three days of the New Year are particularly crowded, so visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is recommended.
Access and Basic Information
Location and Access
Address: 2855 Kojima Yuka, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture
Access by Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from Mizushima IC on the Seto-Chuo Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from Kurashiki IC on the Sanyo Expressway
Public Transportation:
- Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Kojima Station on the JR Seto-Ohashi Line
- Local buses also operate, but the number of services is limited, so advance confirmation is necessary.
Visiting Hours and Admission Fees
Visiting Hours: The temple grounds are generally open for free worship, but there are set times for prayers and visits to the guest hall. Please check the official information for details.
Parking: Free parking available (temporary parking is also available during peak seasons)
Accessibility Information
Rendaiji Temple is located on the mountainside, so there are many stairs within the grounds. While there are some restrictions for wheelchair access, it is recommended to inquire in advance about the route from the parking lot to the main hall.
Rendaiji Onsen, Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture
The name “Rendaiji” also exists in Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture. This refers to the Rendaiji Onsen area, known as a hot spring resort.
History of Rendaiji Onsen
Rendaiji Onsen, known as the inner sanctuary of Shimoda, is said to have been founded by Gyoki Bodhisattva. The deities who bestowed the hot springs were enshrined as Kami-no-Yu Gongen and Shimo-no-Yu Gongen, and the area developed as a place of hot spring worship.
Characteristics of Rendaiji Onsen
This quiet hot spring town, surrounded by bamboo groves, boasts long-established inns with over 130 years of history. Some inns retain the Meiji-era architectural style, blending Japanese and Western elements, allowing visitors to enjoy a historical atmosphere.
It is also recognized as part of the Izu Peninsula Geopark, possessing geological value. The hot springs are mostly simple hot springs, popular for their gentle waters.
Tourist Attractions Around Rendaiji Temple
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
Located about 30 minutes by car from Rendaiji Temple, the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is a beautiful tourist spot with its white-walled townscape. You can stroll through the streets that retain the atmosphere of the Edo period and visit art museums and folk art museums.
Seto Ohashi Bridge
From the Kojima area, the Seto Ohashi Bridge is nearby, allowing you to see the magnificent bridge connecting Honshu and Shikoku up close. At Seto Ohashi Memorial Park, you can learn about the bridge’s history.
Washuzan Mountain
Washuzan Mountain, part of the Setonaikai National Park, is a scenic spot offering panoramic views of the Seto Ohashi Bridge and the many islands of the Seto Inland Sea. It’s about 20 minutes by car from Rendaiji Temple.
Points and Manners for Visiting Rendaiji Temple
Clothing and Items to Bring
Comfortable clothing is recommended for visiting the temple. Since there are many stairs, choose comfortable shoes. In summer, the sun is strong, so a hat or parasol is useful. In winter, the wind is strong on the mountaintop, so be sure to take proper precautions against the cold.
Regarding Photography
Photography within the temple grounds is generally permitted, but there may be restrictions on photographing cultural artifacts such as the interior of the main hall and the sliding screen paintings in the guest hall. Please check before taking photos or follow the instructions.
Manners for Visiting the Temple
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Pray quietly in the main hall.
- Be considerate of other visitors.
- Take your trash with you.
- Eat and drink only in designated areas within the temple grounds.
Annual Events at Rendaiji Temple
New Year’s First Visit
The first three days of the New Year are the busiest time of year for visitors. It is crowded with people praying for protection from evil and for a safe year. Temporary parking lots are set up, and traffic control is implemented.
Setsubun Festival
On Setsubun in February, a bean-throwing ceremony is held, and prayers for protection from evil become particularly popular.
Autumn Grand Festival
In autumn, a grand festival is held, featuring special Buddhist services and events.
Rendaiji Temple and Local Culture
Center of Faith in the Bitchu Area
Rendaiji Temple has been deeply rooted in the lives of local people as the center of faith in the Bitchu area, particularly in the Kojima region of Kurashiki City. Local people visit Rendaiji Temple at important turning points in their lives to offer prayers and gratitude.
The Culture of Double Pilgrimage
The Edo-period custom of “double pilgrimage to Konpira and Yuga” is still practiced today. It is believed that visiting both Kotohira-gu Shrine in Kagawa Prefecture and Rendaiji Temple brings greater blessings, and many worshippers still practice this double pilgrimage.
Summary: The Charm and Value of Rendaiji Temple
Yugayama Rendaiji Temple, with its 1,300-year history as a sacred site for warding off evil, continues to attract the faith of many people. With its status as one of Japan’s three great Gongen shrines, cultural treasures such as Maruyama Okyo’s fusuma paintings, and one of Japan’s largest statues of Fudo Myoo (Acala), the temple offers a wide range of attractions.
Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Mount Yuga, the temple grounds showcase the beauty of each season, providing peace of mind to visitors. Beyond prayers for protection against misfortune, it is a highly valuable tourist destination for enjoying history, culture, and nature, making it a must-visit spot when sightseeing in Okayama.
The history of its prosperity as a prayer temple for Lord Ikeda of the Bizen domain, the legend of its founding by Gyoki Bodhisattva, and the continuing belief in protection against misfortune to this day—all of these are condensed into one place: Rendaiji Temple.
Rendaiji Onsen in Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture, also has a legend of Gyoki Bodhisattva and possesses a unique culture where hot springs and faith are intertwined. While sharing the same name “Rendaiji,” these two places each possess distinct charms. Both are worth visiting, offering a glimpse into Japanese history and culture.
Whether you’re at a turning point in your life, feeling lost, or simply want to connect with history and culture, Rendaiji Temple will always warmly welcome you, ward off misfortune, and bring peace to your heart.
