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The head temple of Shingon School, Daogo Sect with 1300 years of history. Valuable architecture such as Kannon hall with a Buddha statue by Shiwaku craftsmen is on the huge premises
Known as ”Yamadera (Mountain Temple),” this head temple of Shingon School, Daogo Sect is a birthplace of Rigen-Daishi Shobo, the first priest of Daigoji Temple. Of all the many historical sites on Honjima Island, this temple was opened in 724, older than Todaiji Temple in Nara. Long ago, the monks who trained in this Mountain Temple served in temples on Shiwaku islands.
For a temple in the mountain of a small remote island, It has a large hall, which indicates how prosperous Honjima and other Shiwaku islands were. The main statues, Sho Kannon Bosatsu, Acala, Bisand hamonten are designated as national important cultural properties and were made in Kamakura Period. They are opened to the public once every 33 years.
On the spacious premises, there are sacred areas such as Niomon gate, Mt. Hachigamine, Magaibutsu stone figures at a rear place for ascetic training. Stroll around in the serine mountain, look at Kannon hall built by the famous Shiwaku carpenters or the dragon and tiger sculptures on the big gate, and reflect on the advanced skills people had in the bygone days.
On the 3rd Sunday of July each year, Yamadera summer festival features Saito Goma, a big bonfire, attracts many visitors even from outside the island.
Yamadera summer festival with Saito Goma bonfire
The Niomon Gate in the mountain
The dragon and tiger sculptures at the big gate made by Shiwaku carpentry manters
Kannon-do Hall and Yakushi-do Hall
Magaibutsu stone figure, Acala
Buddhist Wedding
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
There are no multilingual pamphlets or signboards. There is a staff member who can provide French language support but we ask that you call in advance to confirm availability.
Q
Do you have temple’s red ink stamps?
Yes, Goshuin temple stamps are available. There are 4 different kinds:
①Shougakuin original goshuin stamp.
②Shikoku 33 Kannon Sacred Sites No. 3 Goshuin stamp
③108 Kannon Sacred Sites No. 71 Goshuin Stamp
④A Goshuin stamp that blends ② & ③together.
Q
Is parking available?
There is not a dedicated lot. There is street space along the mountain road, but if you drive up to the summit we ask that you park off the side street as to not impose on other visitors. Please note that the yellow gate is a barrier, so cars cannot proceed beyond that point.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
Q
Where are the Carvings by Shiwaku craftsmen?
Above the large entrance you’ll find a number of carvings, at the Main Hall, and also at the base of the Kannon-do Hall you’ll find the Shiwaku craftsmen panels incorporated as ship paddles.
Q
Is there a bathroom?
There is a Japanese style toilet outside.
Q
Is there a place to eat?
There is a teahouse called Yama no Ue Auwa where you can try dishes that feature fermented foods. It’s typically opened during the full and new moon (although it may be closed at times due to Buddhist services, please check Instagram), and otherwise is available if booked 3 days in advanced. You can use LINE to ask any questions or make reservations.
