Pilgrimage to the 88 Temples of Shikoku: A Journey of the Heart - Temple 3: Konsen-ji
Pilgrimage to the 88 Temples of Shikoku: A Journey of the Heart
—The Beginning of the Pilgrimage, Guided by the Golden Spring
The 3rd Temple, Konsen-ji, is a historic temple located in Itano-cho, Itano District, Tokushima Prefecture.
It is the temple visited next by pilgrims after completing the 1st Temple, Ryozen-ji, and the 2nd Temple, Gokuraku-ji, and among the Awa temples known as the Dojo of Awakening, it is cherished as a place to deepen one's pilgrim spirit.
The temple grounds are enveloped in a serene atmosphere, where a long history and numerous legends still quietly breathe.
History of Konsen-ji
It is said that Konsen-ji was founded during the Tenpyo era (729–749) by the monk Gyoki at the imperial request of Emperor Shomu.
At that time, it was named Konko-myo-ji and was established to house the principal image of Shakyamuni Buddha. Later, when Kobo Daishi (Kukai) visited this area, it is said that he dug a well to save the villagers suffering from a drought, and pure, sacred water gushed forth.
People called the well the Golden Well, and in honor of its miraculous power, the temple's name was changed to Konsen-ji. Even today, this legend is cherished and passed down as the faith that represents the temple.
The Golden Well
When visiting Konsen-ji, you should definitely stop by the Golden Well.
Since ancient times, there has been a tradition that says:
If your face is clearly reflected in the well, you will have a long life.
If it is reflected dimly, you should take care of your health.
Of course, this is a superstition, but encountering such traditions is one of the joys of the pilgrimage journey.
The time spent quietly peering into the well and facing yourself will surely calm your heart.
Principal Image: Shakyamuni Buddha
The principal image of Konsen-ji is Shakyamuni Buddha.
Shakyamuni Buddha is the historical Buddha who founded Buddhism, and is worshipped as a being who guides people from the sufferings of life toward salvation.
The Shikoku Pilgrimage is not merely sightseeing.
It is a journey of the heart.
It is also a journey of self-reflection and refining the heart.
Joining your hands in prayer to Shakyamuni Buddha early in this journey serves as a vow to walk the path of pilgrimage with a righteous heart.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Beyond the main hall and the Daishi hall, Konsen-ji has other notable features.
The vermilion Nio Gate warmly welcomes pilgrims, and within the grounds, there remains the Benkei Stone, said to have been lifted by the warrior monk Benkei.
There are also buildings such as the Goma hall and Kannon hall, where you can feel the weight of history as you walk through the quiet temple grounds.
Go-eika (Pilgrim's Hymn)
Thinking of the treasure pond of Paradise, the golden spring stands clear and still.
This hymn is a beautiful verse that likens the golden spring to the treasure pond of the Pure Land.
When you stand before the golden well, the meaning of this song resonates even more deeply in your heart.
The Meaning of Visiting on the Ohenro Pilgrimage
For pilgrims who have just begun their journey, the third temple is a place to solidify their resolve to walk the path.
You set out from the first temple, prepared your heart at the second, and now at Konsen-ji, you face your inner self.
The golden well may be more than just a tourist spot; it may be like a mirror reflecting your own self.
The journey has only just begun, but by quietly joining your hands in prayer here, your heart will naturally prepare itself for the long pilgrimage path that lies ahead.
Access
Location: 66 Kameyama-shita, Otera, Itano-cho, Itano-gun, Tokushima Prefecture
It is easily accessible, located about a 10-minute walk from Itano Station on the JR Kotoku Line, or about a 5-minute drive from the Itano Interchange on the Tokushima Expressway. Temple No. 4, Dainichi-ji, and Temple No. 5, Jizo-ji, are also relatively close, and many people visit them in succession on foot or by car.
Summary
As the third temple of the 88 Sacred Sites of Shikoku, Konsen-ji is a temple that guides your pilgrimage journey toward a deeper experience.
The time spent gazing at your own reflection in the Golden Well and quietly pressing your hands together in prayer to Shakyamuni Buddha is a special experience unique to the Ohenro pilgrimage.
In this place where history, legend, and faith harmonize, a gentle atmosphere flows that has remained unchanged through the long passage of time.
Before heading to the next temple, please take your time walking through the grounds and try listening to your own heart.