History
The Origins of the Temple
The origins of Daisho Kannonji are traditionally traced to the family of Yosami no Abiko, who were active in trade with the Korean kingdom of Baekje. According to temple tradition, the family received a small Kannon statue measuring 1 sun and 8 bu, approximately 5.5 centimeters, as a gift from King Seong of Baekje.
In 546, during the seventh year of the reign of Emperor Kinmei, local residents built a hall to enshrine the statue. Later, in 607, during the 14th year of the reign of Empress Suiko, Prince Shotoku is said to have founded Kannonji Temple here.
The Edo Period and the Summer Campaign of Osaka
During the Edo period, Daisho Kannonji grew into a large temple complex with 36 subsidiary temple buildings and reached the height of its prosperity.
The temple is also associated with an episode from the Summer Campaign of Osaka in 1615. According to tradition, Tokugawa Ieyasu, who had escaped an attack by Sanada Nobushige, was sheltered at the temple.
Reconstruction and Independence in the Modern Era
After the Meiji government’s policy of Shinbutsu Bunri, the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, Daisho Kannonji became independent from Oyosami Shrine, where it had previously served as a Buddhist temple associated with the shrine.
In 1881, a fire destroyed many of the temple’s valuable treasures. Reconstruction began in 1890.
In 1947, the temple became independent from the Yamashina branch of Shingon Buddhism and established the Kannon Sect, which continues today.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Main Hall
The Main Hall was rebuilt in 1897 and continues to welcome worshippers today.
Hakuryu Pond
Hakuryu Pond underwent an expansion project completed in 2018. The tranquil pond provides a peaceful place for visitors to pause and enjoy the temple grounds.
Kinshinden Hall and Goma Hall
The Kinshinden Hall was built in 1982. The Goma Hall, constructed in 1978, enshrines Abura no Fudo Myoo, a form of Fudo Myoo associated with the temple’s Buddhist rituals.
Stone Statues Representing the 33 Saigoku Kannon Temples
The temple grounds contain a group of stone Buddhist statues representing the 33 temples of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, established in 1982. Visitors can pay their respects to the statues as part of a local pilgrimage experience.
Other Facilities
South Gate
Inari Shrine
Dainichi Hall: Built in 1984.
West Gate: The main gate, rebuilt in 1902.
Cultural Heritage
The Great Kannonzai Camphor Tree
Within the temple grounds stands the “Kanjizai Great Camphor Tree,” which is designated as an Osaka City Protected Tree.
The camphor tree is believed to be approximately 800 years old. As a symbol of Daisho Kannonji, it has stood on the grounds for centuries and continues to watch over visitors to the temple.
Annual Events and Setsubun Traditions
Setsubun Yakuyoke Daihoye
The annual Setsubun Yakuyoke Daihoye is held from February 1 through February 7. During this important Buddhist ceremony, the principal image is displayed to the public, and the temple becomes crowded with worshippers praying for protection from misfortune and good fortune.
Goma Fire Ritual
Goma fire rituals are held in January and February, using a Shugendo-style ceremony known as Tengai Goma.
The tengai is traditionally said not to burn even when exposed to the flames of the goma fire altar, giving the ritual a distinctive and mysterious atmosphere.
During the Setsubun period, numerous food stalls line the road connecting JR Abikucho Station and Osaka Metro Abiko Station, creating a lively festival atmosphere. Some Osaka City Bus services may also be suspended during this period.
Prayer Services
Prayers at the Main Hall
Prayer services are offered at the Main Hall throughout the year. However, applicants cannot attend the actual ceremony. The prayer is performed at a later date, and the ofuda, or protective talisman, is sent by mail.
Prayers at the Goma Hall
Prayer services held at the Goma Hall in January and February allow applicants to attend the ceremony in person. After the ritual, the protective talisman is handed directly to the applicant.
Access to Daisho Kannonji Temple
From Abiko Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line: approximately a 3-minute walk.
From Abikucho Station on the JR Hanwa Line: approximately a 5-minute walk.
Abiko Kannon: A Historic Buddhist Site in Osaka
Daisho Kannonji Temple has a long history closely connected with the ancient Abiko area and the worship of Kannon Bosatsu. Its traditions encompass the history of relations with Baekje, the era of Prince Shotoku, the Summer Campaign of Osaka, and the religious changes of the Meiji period.
Today, the temple remains a familiar place of worship in Osaka. Its historic buildings, sacred statues, ancient camphor tree, peaceful pond, and lively Setsubun ceremonies offer visitors an opportunity to experience an important part of Osaka’s Buddhist and cultural heritage.