Meisekiji Temple Information
Goshuin
- Omie
- 1,200th Anniversary Edition
Basic Information
| Principal Deity | Thousand-Armed Bodhisattva |
| Elevation | 280 m |
| Google Maps | MAP |
Accommodation
| Shukubo (Temple Lodging) | Not Available |
| Tsuyado (Free Pilgrim Shelter) | Not Available |
History & Highlights
Meisekiji is a historic temple traditionally believed to have been founded to enshrine Senju Kannon (the Thousand-Armed Bodhisattva of Compassion). The temple is closely associated with both Kōbō Daishi and Minamoto no Yoritomo, and over the centuries it gained the patronage of samurai and feudal lords. Today, it remains a popular pilgrimage temple, welcoming visitors and worshippers from across Japan.
Notes
The Hanaga Pass Pilgrimage Trail may be impassable, so if safety is your priority, use Prefectural Route 31 instead.
Route Map, Distance & Travel Time
You can switch between the tabs to view the routes to the previous and next temples.
Select “Driving Route” from the map’s upper-left menu to display the driving route.
Click the Full Screen icon in the upper-right corner of the map to open it in Google Maps for a larger, easier-to-view map.
- From Previous Temple
- To Next Temple
Previous Temple: Butsumokuji
| Distance | 10.6 km |
| Walking | 3 hr 40 min |
| Driving | 30 min |
Next Temple: Daihoji
| Distance | 67.2 km |
| Walking | 20 hr |
| Driving | 2 hr |
My Walking Experience
Meisekiji is located about 10 km (6.2 miles) northwest of Butsumokuji. Although the distance is relatively short, the route climbs Hanaga Pass, which sits at an elevation of approximately 480 m (1,575 ft) on the border between Uwajima and Seiyo, making this a steadily uphill stage.
Crossing Hanaga Pass
After leaving Butsumokuji, head west. Pass beneath the expressway overpass and cross the Mima River, where you’ll find signs directing pilgrims toward Hanaga Pass. Turning north here leads you onto a traditional pilgrimage trail that shortcuts several bends in Prefectural Route 31.
After rejoining Prefectural Route 31, continue to a large curve in the road, where you’ll find the entrance to the Hanaga Pass Pilgrimage Trail.
Important Information About the Hanaga Pass Trail
Trail conditions on the Hanaga Pass Pilgrimage Trail can change due to landslides, road damage, or construction work. When I walked this route in 2018, the trail was closed because of construction, and it remained difficult to access for some time afterward.
Because conditions may still change, always check the information boards at the trailhead before starting. If the trail is closed, use Prefectural Route 31 instead. Although it is slightly longer, it is the safer option.
Resting and Staying Overnight in Uwa
After crossing Hanaga Pass, the route descends to the Hijikawa River. From there, continue northwest for about 5 km (3.1 miles) to reach Uwa, home to Meisekiji.
Uwa has a good selection of hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it a convenient place for walking pilgrims to rest and resupply.
The next temple, Daihoji, is approximately 70 km (43.5 miles) away and involves significant elevation gain. Staying overnight in Uwa before tackling this demanding stage is a good way to prepare for the journey ahead.
A Kind Act of Ossettai on a Winter Evening
The first time I walked this section was in winter. After visiting Meisekiji in the late afternoon, I stopped at a nearby restaurant for dinner. As we talked, the owner asked, “Where are you staying tonight? You’re not planning to sleep outside, are you?”
Uwa sits in a basin at an elevation of about 200 m (656 ft), and winter nights there can become extremely cold. She was genuinely concerned about my safety and kindly arranged a place for me to stay that very evening.
It was a small but unforgettable act of ossettai—the tradition of offering kindness and support to pilgrims. Moments like this reminded me that the Shikoku Pilgrimage is not only about the temples you visit, but also about the warmth and generosity of the people you meet along the way.
Nearby Accommodation
If you plan to stay near Meisekiji or between the surrounding pilgrimage temples, see the article below.
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