Onzan-ji, Buddhist temple and pilgrimage site in Komatsushima, Japan
Onzan-ji is a Buddhist temple and pilgrimage site in Komatsushima, in Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. The grounds hold a main hall, a Daishi hall, and a separate hall dedicated to the mother of the monk Kukai.
The temple was founded during the Tenpyo era on the order of Emperor Shomu by the monk Gyoki, and at first women were not allowed to enter. In 814, Kukai lifted that restriction and opened the site to everyone.
As the 18th stop on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, the temple is a regular halt for pilgrims who arrive on foot or by bus, often dressed in white. A hall dedicated to Kukai's mother stands on the grounds and draws visitors who want to honor that personal story.
Parking is available on the temple grounds for those arriving by car. Visitors using public transport can get off at the nearby Onzan-ji-mae bus stop, which is the closest stop to the site.
Onzan-ji is the only temple on the entire Shikoku pilgrimage route that offers the Surikesa, a protective garment embroidered with Sanskrit characters and religious texts. This item cannot be found at any other stop along the route.
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