Ryozenji Temple
Map
Ryozenji is a Koyasan Shingon sect temple in Naruto, Tokushima Prefecture, and Temple No. 1 of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Known as the 'temple of the vow to begin,' it is the first place visited by pilgrims from across the country who set out on the pilgrimage. The grounds hold many stone Buddhist statues, including the Enmusubi Kannon (Kannon of good ties), and serve as a place of prayer for resolve and wishes at the start of the journey.
Temple Info
- Sect
- Koyasan Shingon school
- Principal Image
- Shaka Nyorai (the historical Buddha)
- Founded
- Said to date from the Tenpyo era (729-749)
History & Origins
It is said to have been founded by the bodhisattva Gyoki in the Tenpyo era (729 to 749). Later, when Kukai (Kobo Daishi) opened the Shikoku pilgrimage, he designated it Temple No. 1 and positioned it as the 'training hall of awakening the aspiration.' Since then it has welcomed white-robed pilgrims for about 1,300 years as the starting point of the Shikoku pilgrimage.
Highlights
The grounds enshrine the Enmusubi Kannon, said to bring good ties not only in relationships between people but also in health, work, and happiness. A goma fire ritual is held on the 1st of every month, with a star festival and prayers for protection from misfortune at Setsubun in February, and the Flower Festival (Buddha's birthday celebration) on the first Sunday of April. A shop stocked with pilgrimage goods is also well equipped.
Visitor Guide
It is about a 15-minute walk from JR Bando Station, or about 15 minutes by car from Naruto Interchange. Free parking is available for 100 cars and 20 buses. The temple is open every day of the year and admission to the grounds is free. Pilgrimage items such as white robes and sedge hats can be purchased here. Allow about 30 to 60 minutes.
Best Season
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), the Shikoku pilgrimage seasons, see the most pilgrims. The autumn leaves in the grounds are at their best in mid-November.
Annual Events
- January
Shogatsu Goma Kito (New Year Goma Prayers)
Special goma fire-ritual prayers are held during the first three days of the new year, praying for good health and good fortune.
- February
Hoshi Matsuri (Star Festival) and Yakuyoke Kito (Prayers for Warding Off Misfortune)
A Hoshi Matsuri and prayers for warding off misfortune are held to coincide with Setsubun.
- April
Hana Matsuri (Shaka Tanjoe, Buddha's Birthday Festival)
A flower festival celebrating the birth of Shakyamuni is held on the first Sunday of April.
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