Enmyō-ji, Buddhist temple in Matsuyama, Japan.
Enmyō-ji is a Shingon temple in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, entered through a late-17th-century eight-legged gate (yatsuashi-mon) with Muromachi-period elements, a Prefectural Cultural Property. Inside, the main hall holds a restored seated Amida Buddha and two flanking bodhisattva statues from around 1250, with a dragon carving attributed to Hidari Jingorō near the ceiling. A Christian lantern with a cross and a Marian figure stands by the bell tower.
Founded by the Buddhist monk Gyōki, the temple played an early role in spreading Buddhist practice across the region. It was heavily damaged during sixteenth-century conflicts but was eventually restored to become an important pilgrimage site.
This temple marks the 53rd stop on the Shikoku pilgrimage route, where travelers from across Japan visit to participate in meditation and prayer. The site holds deep meaning for those walking this centuries-old spiritual path.
The temple is within walking distance of the nearest train station and is open throughout the day for visitors. The grounds are easy to navigate on foot, allowing time to explore both the main structures and quieter areas.
A copper votive plaque bearing the date 1650 is the only such Shikoku pilgrimage plaque known. It was introduced to the world in 1921 by Frederick Starr of the University of Chicago, who was touring the 88 temples.
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