The sun sets in Imperial Palace. This is a very solemn scene.The Emperor’s coronation parade (Celebration ceremony) ended without a hitch, and the Reiwa era began.Thank you everyone involved.
That is the 49th temple of Shikoku 88temple pilgrimage.It was built by Emyo(Buddhist priest) under the order of Emperor Koken. The principal image is the Syaka Nyorai, which is said to have been carved by Gyoki. The Nio statue at the Sanmon gate is beautiful. In the midsummer sun, the green bamboo forest was brilliant.
That is the 48th temple of Shikoku 88temple pilgrimage.It was built by Gyoki under the order of Emperor Shomu. The principal image is the 11 faced Kanzeon Bosatsu, which is said to have been carved by Gyoki. The sound of the stream in front of the gate is pleasant. Bright red lotus flowers were blooming in the Benzaiten pond on the temple grounds. I am now entering the urban area of Matsuyama city.
There is a spring called “Jyo no fuchi” on the way from Yasakaji to Seirinji. It is said that when Kobo Daishi was passing here, he thrust a stick against the ground to help the drought-stricken residents, and then water gushed out. The water still gushes out and is very clear. It is a recreation area for citizens as a park. It is one of the top 100 famous waters in Japan and the Oku-no-in (inner sanctuary) of Seirinji.
After visiting Yasakaji, I went through Yatsuzuka, which is said to be the grave of Emonsaburo’s children, and visited Fudahajime Daishido Hall. The formal name is Komura Daishido, which is the outer Buddhist temple of Dairenji. It is one of the 88 extra sacred places in Shikoku. The principal image is Kobo Daishi. It is said that the Osamefuda started when Emonsaburo, who chased Kobo Daishi, apologized to the statue of Daishi in this hall and kept his name and address. There are many sacred places related to Kobo Daishi around here.
That is the 9th temple of Shikoku exceptional Sacred Sites. The principal images are Monju Bosatsu, Jizo Bosatsu and Kobo Daishi. The founder was also Kobo Daishi. It is said to be the site of the house of Emonzaburo, the origin of the pilgrimage. There are many old families around and it reminds us of the past.
That is the 47th temple of Shikoku 88temple pilgrimage.It is close from Joruriji by walking in Satoyama. It’s honzon (principal image of Buddha) is Amida Nyorai and En no Gyoja (a semi-legendary holy man noted for his practice of mountain asceticism during the second half of the seventh century) was the founder of the temple. It is said that the name of the temple comes from the fact that it was built by cutting eight slopes. From the cemetery in thisi temple, you can enjoy a wide view of Matsuyama city and countryside. A cat was guarding the temple gate.
That is the 46th temple of Shikoku 88temple pilgrimage.It is about 30 km from Iwayaji. The principal image is Yakushi Nyorai (the Healing Buddha) which is said to have been carved by Gyoki. Built by Gyoki. The trees in the precincts are well taken care of. The Nozenkazura in front of the Daishi-do was in full bloom. There is also a stone with a haiku by Shiki MASAOKA. “Nagaki Hiya Emon Saburo Jyoruriji”
I head for Joruriji from Iwayaji. Misaka Pass is a dangerous place on the Tosa-kaido Road connecting Matsuyama and Kochi. I could see the town of Matsuyama faintly from the pass. At the foot of the mountain, after passing the mountain pass, there is the famous old henro-yado “Sakamotoya”. Unfortunately, the day I visited was a holiday.
That is the 45th temple of Shikoku 88temple pilgrimage. The lord is Fudo Myo which is said to have been carved by Kobo Daishi. This temple was also built by Kobo Daishi. This temple is a sacred mountain surrounded by rock walls, and the entire surrounding mountain is the principal image. Before visiting the shrine, I was able to meet Ms.Ochi, who supports the pilgrimage in Kumakogen-cho. The pilgrimage is supported by such merciful people. Thank goodness.