“I want to visit Saikokuji Temple during my sightseeing trip to Onomichi, Hiroshima, but what kind of temple is it?”
“I’ve heard there are giant straw sandals, but I want to know the specific highlights and how to get there in detail!”
Do you have these questions or concerns before heading out?
Saikokuji Temple, one of the three great mountains of Onomichi, is a premier power spot where you can enjoy history and spectacular views. It features giant “O-waraji” (straw sandals) hung at the Niomon Gate and nationally designated Important Cultural Properties like the Kondo (Main Hall) and the Three-Story Pagoda. It is also widely loved across the country as a temple for “Kenyaku Kigan” (praying for healthy legs and feet), making it an absolute must-visit spot full of charm during your Onomichi sightseeing tour.
In this article, we will introduce in detail the history and features of Saikokuji Temple, the must-see highlights within the grounds, information on the popular goshuin (temple seals), and an easy-to-understand access guide so you will not get lost.
By reading to the end, you will be perfectly prepared to fully enjoy the charms of Saikokuji Temple. Please use this as a reference for your trip to Onomichi!
- What is Saikokuji Temple? History and Features
- 5 Must-See Highlights of Saikokuji Temple
- The Giant “O-waraji” (Straw Sandals) at the Niomon Gate
- The “Kondo” (Main Hall) Designated as an Important Cultural Property
- The “Three-Story Pagoda” Offering a Panoramic View of Onomichi
- The “108 Stone Steps” to Clear Away Worldly Desires
- Seasonal Scenery in the Temple Grounds (Cherry Blossoms, Hydrangeas, and Autumn Leaves)
- Goshuin (Temple Seals) and Amulets Available at Saikokuji Temple
- How to Get to Saikokuji Temple (Access Guide)
- Basic Information of Saikokuji Temple (Viewing Hours and Fees)
- Recommended Sightseeing Spots Around Saikokuji Temple
- Conclusion: Visit Saikokuji Temple When Sightseeing in Onomichi, Hiroshima!
- A Message from the Guide
What is Saikokuji Temple? History and Features
Saikokuji Temple is located in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and is a historic temple that has been worshipped by many people since ancient times. Here, we will explain in detail the origins and features of this fascinating temple.
A Historic Temple Known as One of the Three Mountains of Onomichi
Saikokuji Temple is a prestigious temple known as the head temple of the Daigo branch of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. It is said to have been founded in the Nara period by the famous monk Gyoki, and has walked alongside the long history of the city of Onomichi. Located on the hillside of Mount Saikokuji, which is called one of the “Three Mountains of Onomichi” along with Mount Senkoji and Mount Jodoji, the vast temple grounds are dotted with many cultural properties.
A Power Spot for “Kenyaku Kigan” (Praying for Healthy Legs and Feet)
A major feature of Saikokuji Temple is its nationwide fame as a power spot for “Kenyaku Kigan,” which means praying for the health of one’s legs and feet. Since ancient times, many worshippers have dedicated straw sandals to gain strong legs and feet, hoping to share in the strength of the powerful Nio guardian deities. Even today, students and athletes who want to excel in sports, as well as elderly people who wish to continue walking vigorously on their own feet, visit Saikokuji Temple from all over the country to pray for good leg health.
5 Must-See Highlights of Saikokuji Temple
The temple grounds are full of highlights, including historical buildings and rich nature. We introduce five spots you must check out when visiting Saikokuji Temple.
The Giant “O-waraji” (Straw Sandals) at the Niomon Gate
The symbol of Saikokuji Temple is the giant “O-waraji” (straw sandals) displayed at the Niomon Gate at the entrance. These sandals, measuring about two meters in length, were dedicated by worshippers praying for strong legs, and their overwhelming size captivates visitors. It is also very popular as a photo spot, making it perfect for taking a commemorative picture of your visit to Saikokuji Temple.
The “Kondo” (Main Hall) Designated as an Important Cultural Property
Passing through the Niomon Gate and climbing up the stone steps, you will find the “Kondo” (Main Hall), which is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. The current building was rebuilt in the Muromachi period, and its majestic appearance and intricate architectural style offer a glimpse of the high technical skills of that era. Putting your hands together in prayer in front of the Kondo, with its solemn atmosphere, will make you feel as if your mind is being quietly cleansed.
The “Three-Story Pagoda” Offering a Panoramic View of Onomichi
Located higher up the mountain path from the Kondo is the “Three-Story Pagoda,” which is also a National Important Cultural Property. This valuable structure was also built in the Muromachi period, and its elegant appearance blends beautifully with the surrounding nature. Furthermore, the high ground where the Three-Story Pagoda stands offers a panoramic view of the Onomichi Channel and the beautiful cityscape, making it known as one of the best scenic spots in Saikokuji Temple.
The “108 Stone Steps” to Clear Away Worldly Desires
The staircase leading from the Niomon Gate to the Kondo is called the “108 Stone Steps.” It is made up of 108 steps, the same number as human worldly desires in Buddhist teaching, and it is said that one worldly desire is cleared away with each step you climb. We recommend taking your time to climb step by step at your own pace while feeling the tranquil atmosphere of the surroundings.
Seasonal Scenery in the Temple Grounds (Cherry Blossoms, Hydrangeas, and Autumn Leaves)
Saikokuji Temple shows different beautiful faces depending on the season. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom magnificently within the grounds, and in early summer, brightly colored hydrangeas decorate the stone steps. In autumn, the trees turn red and yellow, allowing you to enjoy a wonderful contrast between the historic buildings and the autumn leaves. Meeting different landscapes depending on the time of your visit is another great charm of Saikokuji Temple.
Goshuin (Temple Seals) and Amulets Available at Saikokuji Temple
Regarding goshuin and amulets, which are one of the joys of visiting temples, Saikokuji Temple has attractive offerings unique to its traditions.
Types of Goshuin, Reception Location, and Hours
At Saikokuji Temple, you can receive several types of goshuin, including one for the principal image of Buddha. The granting and signing of goshuin take place at the Nokyosho (temple office) located near the Kondo. The reception hours are generally from morning until late afternoon, similar to other ordinary temples, but since they may vary depending on the day, we recommend visiting with plenty of time to spare.
Amulets for Healthy Legs and Popular “Waraji Ema” (Votive Tablets)
As offerings unique to a temple for healthy legs, amulets with tiny straw sandals attached and cute “Waraji Ema” (votive tablets shaped like straw sandals) are extremely popular. It is believed that by writing your wishes, such as praying for good leg health or victory in sports, on the ema and dedicating it at a designated place in the precincts, you can receive the divine protection of the Nio deities.
How to Get to Saikokuji Temple (Access Guide)
We will explain in detail the transportation methods to get to Saikokuji Temple, divided into using public transportation and using a car.
Access from Onomichi Station
How to Get There on Foot
It takes about a 30-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station to Saikokuji Temple. You can walk while enjoying the unique streetscape of Onomichi, with its seaside roads, charming shopping arcades, and scattered old temples, making traveling on foot recommended for those who love strolling.
How to Get There by Route Bus
If you want to shorten the walking time, it is convenient to use a route bus from Onomichi Station. Take a bus from the station and get off at the bus stop called “Saikokuji-shita.” From the bus stop, walk up the slope and stone steps for about five minutes to arrive at the Niomon Gate, the entrance to Saikokuji Temple.
Access by Car and Exclusive Parking Information
If you are accessing by car, it takes about 20 minutes from the Onomichi Interchange on the Sanyo Expressway. Saikokuji Temple is equipped with a free exclusive parking lot for worshippers, so visiting by car is safe and convenient. However, some roads in Onomichi City and near the temple grounds are narrow or difficult for cars to pass each other, so careful driving is required.
Basic Information of Saikokuji Temple (Viewing Hours and Fees)
You can basically stroll freely within the grounds of Saikokuji Temple during the daytime, and admission or viewing fees are free. You can enjoy the seasonal scenery and the architectural beauty of the exteriors anytime you think of it. However, when viewing special places such as the inside of the Kondo, advance reservations or a donation may be required, so it is safe to check in advance if you want to inspect the inside of the halls in detail.
Recommended Sightseeing Spots Around Saikokuji Temple
Here are some attractive sightseeing spots around Onomichi that you should visit along with your worship at Saikokuji Temple.
Senkoji Temple and Senkoji Park
Heading west from Saikokuji Temple to Mount Senkoji, you will find Senkoji Temple, a classic sightseeing spot in Onomichi. You can take a ropeway up to Senkoji Park at the summit, and from the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and the Onomichi Channel. We highly recommend visiting this spot as a set with Saikokuji Temple.
Jodoji Temple
Jodoji Temple, located to the east of Saikokuji Temple, is also a famous temple counted as one of the Three Mountains of Onomichi. It features a main hall and a two-story pagoda designated as National Treasures, and is frequently used as a filming location for movies and dramas. By visiting all three temples—Saikokuji, Senkoji, and Jodoji—you can fully appreciate the history of Onomichi on a deeper level.
Conclusion: Visit Saikokuji Temple When Sightseeing in Onomichi, Hiroshima!
Saikokuji Temple is a power spot for healthy legs welcomed by giant straw sandals, and it is an attractive temple packed with highlights such as Important Cultural Property buildings and beautiful seasonal scenery. The spectacular view of the Onomichi cityscape from the Three-Story Pagoda and the refreshing experience of climbing the 108 stone steps will surely become wonderful memories of your trip. When sightseeing in the Hiroshima and Onomichi area, please be sure to visit Saikokuji Temple.
A Message from the Guide
I can feel a deep sense of history in the presence of the Kondo and the Three-Story Pagoda.
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