Unpen-ji

Unpen-ji is a Buddhist temple set at 927 meters on Mount Unpen with a main hall housing a thousand-armed Kannon statue. The grounds contain several treasure halls that preserve important cultural objects from the late Heian period.

The temple was founded in 789 by the Buddhist master Kukai, who selected this mountain location while searching for timber to build Zentsuji Temple. This establishment represents an early phase of Buddhist temple development in the Shikoku region.

This temple marks the 66th station on the Shikoku Pilgrimage route, drawing pilgrims from across Japan who follow this centuries-old spiritual path. The site embodies deep religious meaning for those seeking connection to Buddhist traditions.

A ropeway connects the temple from a base station in Kagawa Prefecture, allowing visitors to reach the mountaintop grounds easily throughout the year. This transport option makes the site accessible to people of all mobility levels.

The temple grounds transform dramatically with the seasons, with winter bringing snow-covered landscapes and spring displaying delicate pink hydrangeas. Autumn months reveal bright red maple trees that paint the grounds in warm tones.

Location: Ikedachō Hakuchi

Inception: 789

Founders: Kūkai

Part of: Shikoku Pilgrimage

GPS coordinates: 34.03522,133.72372

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:29