Virtual Sakai 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #5 Joan-ji Temple

 

     It is unknown when Shinko-zan Kannon-ji Temple was founded.  It was ruined with only its main hall as Kannon-ji Temple and a branch named Hakutei-an Hermitage left at the turn of the 17th century.  The hermitage enshrined the Amitabha Triad with Amitabha in its center, Avalokitesvara on its left, and Mahasthamaprapta on its right.  In 1607, Priest Joen revived the temple, supported by the Kaneda Family, who was a business tycoon in Sakai, renaming the temple Shinko-zan Joan-ji after the Buddhist name of the then head of the family.

     Sakai was burned down in 1615 during the Siege of Osaka.  In 1616, the temple was rebuilt by Joan's son, Masamori.  The Amitabha Triad of Hakutei-an Hermitage is Joan-ji Temple's main deity.

     The temple has a Kannon-do Hall.  The Amidabha standing statue mentioned above was repaired in 1342.  That means the statue dates back much earlier.  It is unknown if the Avalokitesvara image in the Kannon-do hall is that of Ex-Kannon-ji Temple.  The image is known as Haraobi-Kannon, or the Belly Band Avalokitesvara.  Although it is unknown why it is called so, it is worshipped for its childcare support.

Address: 5 Chome−1−12 Kumanochohigashi, Sakai Ward, Sakai, Osaka 590-0946

Phone: 072-222-1387