Aizen-in, Buddhist temple in Itano, Tokushima Prefecture, Japan.
Aizen-in is a Buddhist temple in Itano that functions as the Inner Sanctum of Konsen-ji Temple Number 3, featuring traditional Japanese Buddhist architecture and spaces devoted to meditation. The grounds display classic temple design with sacred areas open for visitors to observe.
The temple was established around the year 815 when Buddhist master Kukai founded it and carved the main statue of Fudo Myoo. This early origin connects it to one of the oldest periods of Buddhist temple building in the region.
The temple functions as a key stop on the Shikoku Pilgrimage route, where visitors encounter ongoing Buddhist practices and devotional rituals. Pilgrims and travelers come here to connect with a long spiritual tradition that shapes the daily life of the place.
Visitors can reach the temple using local transportation and may arrange basic accommodations by speaking with temple staff. It helps to contact ahead to confirm access and what options are available.
Aizen-in is the only temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage where the ink inscription in the pilgrim's book is brushed in Siddham script rather than written with a pen. The temple is also known locally as Nadō no Ofudō-san, and its grounds hold a hall to Akazawa Shinano-no-kami Sōden, a castle lord killed at the 1582 Battle of Nakatomi River; worshippers leave straw sandals there hoping for relief from ailments of the lower body.
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