Komatsu-ji Temple Complete Guide | Southern Boso’s Famous Autumn Foliage Spot, Seven Mysteries, Goshuin (Temple Seal), and Access Information
Komatsu-ji Temple, located in Chikura-cho, Minamiboso City, Chiba Prefecture, is an ancient temple of the Shingon Chizan sect, with Dantoku-san as its mountain name. With a history of over 1300 years, it is known as one of Southern Boso’s premier autumn foliage spots and is also popular as a power spot, with numerous mysterious legends passed down through generations.
This article comprehensively introduces all the information you need to know before visiting Komatsu-ji Temple, including its history, highlights, the legends of its seven mysteries, goshuin information, and access methods.
History and Origins of Komatsu-ji Temple
From Founding to the Present
Komatsu-ji Temple has a long history. According to temple tradition, it began during the reign of Emperor Monmu (697-707 AD) when En no Ozunu, the founder of Shugendo (mountain asceticism), built a hermitage there.
Subsequently, in 718 (Yōrō 2), the site of En no Ozuno’s ruins was investigated, and the temple was formally founded as Kyomatsuyama Dantoku-ji. Initially a Tendai sect temple, it developed as a Tendai sect temple in 831 (Tenchō 8) when Jikaku Daishi Ennin visited and enshrined Sannō Gongen.
Renaming to Komatsu-ji
In 920 (Engi 20), the seven main temple buildings were constructed by the provincial governor of Awa Province, Sumiyoshi no Ason Komatsu Minbu Masakazu, and the temple was renamed Dantokuyama Komatsu-ji. At this time, 500 koku of land was donated to the temple, and it is said that the temple flourished greatly.
From the Sengoku Period to the Edo Period
In 1374 (Oan 7), Takashina Yoshimasa donated a temple bell, and in 1590 (Tensho 18), Satomi Yoshiyasu, a Sengoku daimyo of Boso, donated 53 koku of temple land. The temple has received protection from successive powerful figures.
Currently, it belongs to the Chizan branch of the Shingon sect, and its principal image, Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), has continued to attract the faith of people for over a thousand years.
Highlights of Komatsu-ji Temple
Principal Image: Yakushi Nyorai
Yakushi Nyorai, the principal image of Komatsu-ji Temple, has been affectionately known as “O-Yakushi-sama” since ancient times, revered as a Buddha who removes all illnesses and grants blessings of fertility and safe childbirth.
For those who live far away and cannot visit in person, we also offer mail-order amulets (talismans).
National Important Cultural Property: Bronze Eleven-Headed Kannon Seated Statue
The bronze eleven-faced Kannon seated statue owned by Komatsu-ji Temple is believed to be a work from the Kamakura period and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Currently on deposit at the Tokyo National Museum, its exquisite craftsmanship is highly regarded in the history of Buddhist art.
Prefectural Designated Tangible Cultural Property: Temple Bell
The temple bell, donated by Takashina Yoshimasa in 1374 (Oan 7), is a Chiba Prefecture Designated Tangible Cultural Property. A legend about the “sound of the bell,” one of the “Seven Wonders of Komatsu-ji Temple,” remains associated with this bell.
Vermilion-Painted Niomon Gate
The vermilion-painted Niomon Gate that appears as you proceed along the approach to the temple is a symbolic presence of Komatsu-ji Temple. During the autumn foliage season, you can walk through a natural tunnel of maple trees and pass through the Niomon Gate, inviting you into a world of tranquility.
A legend, one of the “Seven Wonders,” is also passed down about the Nio statues at this gate.
The Seven Wonders of Komatsu-ji Temple
Komatsu-ji Temple has a legend of Seven Wonders that has been passed down for over a thousand years. Here are some of the most representative ones.
Rain on a Sunny Day
Every year on February 15th, no matter how sunny the day, it is said that a brief rain always falls in the area where Komatsu-ji Temple is located.
This is said to originate from February 15th, 921 (Engi 21), when the wife of the Governor of Awa Province was overcome with emotion and shed tears during a grand celebration for the magnificent reconstruction of Komatsu-ji Temple. The legend says that those tears still fall as rain every year on this day.
The Legend of the Bell
One day, a massive landslide occurred, sweeping away the bell of Komatsu-ji Temple. The Nio statues at the temple gate desperately clung to it, but they could not resist the force of nature, and the bell, along with one arm, was swept away into the river.
The bell was carried downstream and buried deep in the Seto River. Later, when heavy rains caused the river to overflow, a legend remains that the mournful sound of the bell—“I miss Komatsu, jagaragagan”—can be heard from the depths of the Seto River.
This legend is passed down among the local people as an explanation for the loss of the Nio statue’s arm.
Other Mysteries
The Seven Mysteries also include other strange phenomena occurring in specific locations within the temple grounds, as well as ancient tales of miraculous events, which continue to fascinate visitors to Komatsu-ji Temple.
Minami-Boso’s Premier Autumn Foliage Spot
Best Time to See the Autumn Leaves and Characteristics
Komatsu-ji Temple is known as the “Temple of Maple Leaves” of Minami-Boso, and is one of the few famous autumn foliage spots in the warm climate of Minami-Boso.
The best time to see the autumn leaves is usually from late November to early December, when maple, ginkgo, and other trees beautifully color the temple grounds. The magnificent colors of the large maple trees are a must-see.
Located deep in the mountains, the grounds of Komatsu-ji Temple, combined with the vibrant autumn leaves, create a mystical atmosphere.
Autumn Foliage Illumination
During the autumn foliage season, nighttime illumination is held, allowing visitors to enjoy a different, more fantastical landscape than during the day. The contrast between the illuminated autumn leaves and the vermilion-painted Niomon Gate captivates visitors.
Please check Komatsu-ji Temple’s official information for illumination dates and times.
Photo Spots
- Maple Tunnel on the Approach: The natural tunnel of maple trees is a perfect photo spot.
- Niomon Gate and Autumn Leaves: The contrast between the vermilion Niomon Gate and the autumn leaves.
- View from the Temple Grounds: A tranquil space surrounded by colorful trees.
Goshuin (Temple Stamp) Information
Features of the Goshuin
Komatsuji Temple’s goshuin are handwritten only. There are no pre-written or printed goshuin available, so please be sure to bring your goshuincho (stamp book).
We cannot accept goshuin by mail; you must visit the temple in person.
Reception Hours
Goshuin reception hours are 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Instagram Information
Komatsuji Temple’s official Instagram (@komatuji) posts information about the temple grounds throughout the seasons and goshuin information. We recommend checking it before your visit.
Prayers and Amulets
Information on Prayers
Komatsu-ji Temple accepts various prayers to receive the blessings of Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha).
- Healing from Illness: Blessings to be cured of all illnesses
- Fertility and Safe Childbirth: Prayers for conception and safe childbirth
- Family Safety: Prayers for the health and happiness of the family
- Physical Health: Prayers for physical and mental health
If you wish to receive a prayer, please contact us by phone in advance.
Amulets (Talismans)
Komatsu-ji Temple offers amulets that grant the protection of Yakushi Nyorai.
For those who live far away and cannot visit the temple in person, we also offer mailing of amulets (talismans). Please contact Komatsu-ji Temple for details.
Inquiries: TEL 0470-44-2502 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
Access Information
Location
Address: 1057 Onuki, Chikura-cho, Minamiboso City, Chiba Prefecture 295-0012
Access by Car
- Approximately 25 minutes from the Futtsu-Tateyama Expressway “Tomiura IC”
- Approximately 2 hours from Tokyo via the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line
Parking
There is a parking lot for visitors on the temple grounds. It is expected to be crowded during the autumn foliage season, so please allow ample time for your visit.
Access by Public Transportation
- Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from JR Uchibo Line “Chikura Station”
- Bus service is limited, so using a taxi is recommended.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Minamiboso has many other attractive tourist spots besides Komatsu-ji Temple.
- Nojimazaki Lighthouse: The southernmost lighthouse on the Boso Peninsula
- Shiramazu Flower Fields: Enjoy flower picking from winter to spring
- Michi-no-Eki Chikura Shiokaze Oukoku: Local seafood and agricultural products are available
Manners and Precautions for Visiting
Attire for Visiting
Since Komatsu-ji Temple is located in a mountainous area, please wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Especially during the autumn foliage season, it can get chilly, so we recommend bringing a jacket.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds, but please be considerate of those receiving prayers or other visitors. We recommend checking in advance regarding the use of tripods.
Visiting Hours
While you can generally visit the temple grounds freely, the temple office is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Those wishing to receive a Goshuin (temple stamp) or prayers should visit during these hours.
Summary of Komatsu-ji Temple’s Charms
Komatsu-ji Temple is a representative ancient temple of Minami-Boso, boasting a history of over 1300 years. Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Mount Dantoku, its grounds display beauty throughout the seasons, but its autumn foliage is particularly breathtaking.
With its blessings from Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), a nationally designated important cultural property—a bronze seated statue of Eleven-Headed Kannon—and legends of its Seven Wonders, the temple is brimming with the allure of history and culture. When visiting Minami-Boso, be sure to visit Komatsu-ji Temple and experience its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
You can receive a handwritten Goshuin (temple stamp) and spend a peaceful time contemplating the legends of its Seven Wonders. The beauty of the autumn leaves enjoyed in the warm climate of Minami-Boso will surely become an unforgettable memory.
Contact Information
- Phone: 0470-44-2502
- Reception Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instagram: @komatuji
Please enjoy a time to refresh your mind and body at Komatsu-ji Temple, a power spot in Minami-Boso.
