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Temple 56: Taizanji

Temple Guide

Taizanji Temple Information

Temple 56: Taizanji

Goshuin

Taizanji Temple Goshuin (1,200th Anniversary Commemorative Stamp)
  • Omie
  • 1,200th Anniversary Edition
Taizanji Temple Omie
Taizanji Temple Omie (1,200th Anniversary Edition)

Basic Information

Principal DeityJizo Bosatsu
Elevation20 m
Google MapsMAP

Accommodation

Shukubo
(Temple Lodging)
Not Available
Tsuyado
(Free Pilgrim Shelter)
Available

History & Highlights

Taizanji is said to have been founded by Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi), who prayed for flood control to save local people suffering from repeated floods. The temple’s principal image, Jōmyō Jizō Bosatsu, has been worshipped ever since as a guardian deity for protection from misfortune and safe childbirth, attracting the faith of many people throughout its history.

Notes

Parking fee: ¥200

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: Nankobo

Temple 55: Nankobo
Distance3 km
Walking50 min
Driving15 min

Next Temple: Eifukuji

Temple 57: Eifukuji
Distance3.1 km
Walking50 min
Driving10 min

My Walking Experience

Taizanji is located about 3 km (1.9 miles) southwest of Nankobo. The route is mostly straightforward, so you should have little difficulty finding your way.

After leaving Nankobo, head southwest and pass beneath the elevated tracks of the JR Yosan Line. Once you reach the rotary area in front of Imabari Station, simply continue southwest, making this an easy route to follow.

Although Taizanji is located close to central Imabari City, a forest spreads behind the temple grounds, creating a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can forget the noise of the city.

Temples located in urban areas can sometimes feel more like tourist destinations, but Taizanji had a warm and local character that made me feel it was deeply connected with the surrounding community.

My Experience Staying at the Tsuyadō (Pilgrim Rest Hall)

Taizanji has a Tsuyadō, a night lodging hall that can be used by walking pilgrims.

I stayed there on New Year’s Eve. Spending the night inside the temple grounds was a memorable experience, and thanks to the kindness of the head priest, I was even given the rare opportunity to ring the temple bell during the Joya no Kane ceremony to welcome the New Year.

Celebrating the New Year in the middle of my walking pilgrimage is something I still remember vividly.

The Tsuyadō has a dormitory-style layout with bunk beds inside and can accommodate around two people. Although it was a cold night at the end of December, I was very grateful simply to have a sheltered place protected from the wind.

If you plan to stay there, it is recommended to purchase food and other supplies at nearby convenience stores before arriving.

Tsuyadō at Taizanji used on New Year's Eve
Bell tower at Taizanji where I rang the New Year's Eve bell

Nearby Accommodation

If you plan to stay near Taizanji or between the surrounding pilgrimage temples, see the article below.

Recommended Accommodation: Temples 56–64 in Ehime
Looking for accommodation near Yokomine-ji (Temple 60) on the Shikoku Pilgrimage? Discover the best hotels, ryokan, shukubo, and guesthouses around Temples 56–64, including recommendations for walking pilgrims and travelers by car.

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