Onzan-ji, Buddhist temple and pilgrimage site in Komatsushima, Japan
Onzan-ji is a Buddhist temple located in the mountains of Tokushima Prefecture featuring a main hall, Daishi hall, and a dedicated hall honoring Kukai's mother. The complex includes parking facilities and sits approximately 4.7 kilometers from Minami-Komatsushima Station with regular bus access.
The temple was founded during the Tenpyo period by Gyoki on Emperor Shomu's order and initially excluded women from entry. Kukai's intervention in 814 changed this restriction and opened the space to all visitors.
As the 18th stop on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, this temple holds special meaning for pilgrims honoring the bond between Kukai and his mother. Visitors experience this spiritual connection through the dedicated hall built for her.
Parking is available on the temple grounds for those arriving by car, and buses run directly to the Onzan-ji-mae stop nearby. Walking from the station is possible but the bus option is more convenient given the distance.
This temple exclusively offers the Surikesa, a sacred protective garment embroidered with Sanskrit characters and religious texts not available elsewhere. Pilgrims consider this talisman a powerful spiritual protector during their journeys.
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