Shūsui-zan Iō-in Rurikō-ji Temple
Sect: Omuro School of Shingon Buddhism
Principal Image: Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha)
Mantra: On Korokoro Sendari Matōgi Sowaka
Founder: Kōbō Daishi
Established: Kōnin era (early Heian period)
Temple History
During the Kōnin era of the Heian period, Kōbō Daishi paused at this site, enshrined Yakushi Nyorai, and, with devoted contemplation, established a small hermitage.
Over the centuries, the temple suffered destruction by warfare on several occasions. In the Meireki era (from 1655 onward), the resident monk Yuhen Shōnin relocated and rebuilt the temple on its present elevated site. He is therefore regarded as the first abbot of its restoration.
Later, in the Ansei era, Zuigaku Shōnin, a disciple of Hashikura-ji Temple, resided here. His spiritual virtue is said to have manifested immediately, and his esoteric powers were considered extraordinary. Revered as the “Present-day Daishi,” he was deeply venerated by devotees from all four prefectures of Shikoku, and the temple became widely known as a place of prayer.
Furthermore, Zuigaku Shōnin came to be revered as a compassionate figure associated with fertility and safe childbirth. Even today, many visitors pray here for the blessing of children and receive the benevolent spiritual merit of the temple.
