Taisanji Temple: A National Treasure on the Shikoku Pilgrimage

Taisanji Temple, nestled in the hills of Matsuyama, is a significant site on the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage. Founded in the 6th century, legend states that a wealthy merchant from Kyushu established the temple after being saved from a shipwreck by the Jūichimen Kannon. In gratitude, he built the original temple, which later received imperial patronage. The temple's main hall, or Hondo, is a designated National Treasure, rebuilt in 1305 by the Kawano family. Its Dutch gable roof with weathered tiles showcases the exquisite Kamakura-period architecture. The Niōmon gate, an Important Cultural Property, was also rebuilt during the Kamakura period. Taisanji is also known for its statue of Juichimen Kannon (Eleven-faced Bodhisattva Who Hears the Sounds of the World). Kobo Daishi visited the temple in the Tencho era (824-834), and he performed a goma fire ritual and changed the temple to the Shingon sect from the Hosso sect of Buddhism. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the architecture, and experience the spiritual atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for centuries. According to legend, the founder of Taisanji, Mano no Choja, built the main hall overnight. The temple is also associated with Kobo Daishi, who is said to have helped villagers build an embankment to prevent flooding.