Yodaji Temple

Yodaji, in Higashikagawa City, Kagawa, is a special head temple of the Zentsuji branch of the Shingon sect, widely revered as a temple for warding off misfortune. It is said to have been founded in the year 739, in the Nara era, by the monk Gyoki, and its main image, the Healing Buddha, is also attributed to Gyoki. The Healing Buddha is a buddha who holds the great vow to remove all illness and bring peace to body and mind, and from ancient times has been known across the country as the Yoda Healing Buddha, said to ward off misfortune, open good fortune, and cure many diseases. It is counted among the inner sanctuaries of the Shikoku eighty-eight temple pilgrimage, and is known as a temple that pilgrims visit to conclude their journey.

Highlights

- The main hall that draws deep faith, with prayers for warding off misfortune, opening fortune, traffic safety, and the healthy growth of children - The history since the Nara era, enshrining the main image of the Healing Buddha attributed to Gyoki - A sacred site as an inner sanctuary of the Shikoku pilgrimage, with a steady stream of pilgrims coming to conclude their journey - The dignified temple buildings, said to have been restored in the Muromachi era

Enjoying the Seasons

As a temple for warding off misfortune, from the New Year toward the early spring it bustles with worshippers praying for protection. Spring brings new green to the grounds, a calm season for a visit. In the pilgrimage season, pilgrims who have completed their journey arrive, and the air is fresh and full of a sense of accomplishment. Autumn lets you walk the grounds at leisure in a calm atmosphere.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Nakasuji, Higashikagawa City, Kagawa Prefecture - Public transport is limited, so coming by car is convenient - For prayer rituals such as warding off misfortune, it is reassuring to check the reception hours before your visit - If visiting as an inner sanctuary of the pilgrimage, it is best to include it as the conclusion of the eighty-eight temple circuit

A Quick Tip

This is a temple to visit when you wish to clear away misfortune and open good fortune at a turning point in life. Those who have walked the pilgrimage may stop here last to mark its conclusion. Joining your hands before the Healing Buddha in the quiet grounds, you can spend a calm time that seems to set both body and mind in order.