Monjusenji Temple

In Kunisaki, Oita Prefecture, at the foot of Mount Monju rising in the hills of the Kunisaki Peninsula, Monjusenji quietly stands. Said to have been founded in 648 by En no Gyoja, it is the foremost ancient sacred site among the Rokugo Manzan temples of the Kunisaki Peninsula. It is also said to be the birthplace of a famous proverb meaning that three heads are better than one, and it has long drawn faith as a power spot for gaining wisdom.

The principal image is Monju Bosatsu, regarded as the buddha of supreme wisdom. During exam season, worshippers come even from afar to pray for academic success and passing their tests. On the grounds stands a giant zelkova tree said to be over a thousand years old, and the natural forest of the surrounding area is designated a prefectural natural monument.

Highlights

- The water of wisdom in the grotto — Sacred water that wells up from a grotto behind the main hall. It is said that drinking this water grants wisdom. - Halls built against the rock — The main hall, built with a steep cliff at its back, is striking and conveys the mountain faith of the Rokugo Manzan to this day. - Giant sacred trees — The approach lined with old trees, including a zelkova over a thousand years old and a cedar of about 400 years, is full of a sacred air.

Enjoying the Seasons

Fresh green in spring and deep green in early summer envelop the grounds, while autumn colors the rock faces with red foliage for the most beautiful sight of the year. In winter, climbing the silent approach in the clear air helps settle the mind. In the season before exams, a calm liveliness arises from worshippers praying for success.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 2432 Daionji, Kunisaki-cho, Kunisaki, Oita Prefecture - Access: About 30 minutes by car from Oita Airport. About 10 minutes from Tomiku on National Route 213. Buses are infrequent, so a car is convenient. - Parking: Available - Visiting: Vegetarian temple cuisine and zazen meditation are also available at the lodging (reservation required)

A Quick Tip

You need to climb stone steps to reach the main hall, so easy-to-walk shoes are recommended. You can take the water of wisdom home, so bringing a bottle is a good idea. The temple lodging offers experiences such as vegetarian cuisine, sutra copying, and zazen, making it a fine place to spend a relaxed half day.