Namikiri Fudoson Temple
Namikiri Fudoson is a quiet, tree-shrouded temple complex located in the Kaifu area of Kaiyo. While dedicated to the deity Fudō Myōō, who is known for defeating evil and for general protection, the temple also has connections to the founder of Shingon Buddhism, Kōbō Daishi.
Of its many magnificent trees are the Votive Cedars, reportedly grown from the chopsticks of the Daishi who stuck them there to hold back a large boulder. It is said only the pure of heart can pass between them - so feel free to try (carefully, of course!)
While the temple does not hold any large-scale events or festivals, the grounds are a portal to a moss-covered world, and a peaceful escape from daily life.
The temple is most easily accessible by car. It is also a 50-minute stroll along the Hahagawa (River) from JR Awa Kainan station, or 35 minutes from Kaifu station. For the latest information, check the town’s tourism website here.
For those interested in a complete English translation of the Votive Cedars and historical explanation sign located in the temple grounds, please take a look below!
While on his way to the Fudō Falls, the tail of a river snail became stuck to the Kōbō Daishi’s leg. So, with a small clunk, he nudged it loose using his walking stick. Afterward, it is said that the river snail lost its tail.
At the cliff with a waterfall in the Fudō Forest, upon seeing a boulder the size of a small mountain that seemed like it was about to fall, the Daishi stood two cedar chopsticks in the ground in front of the boulder. Later, these chopsticks sprouted into two large cedar trees which now seem to firmly hold back the large boulder.
Now, the space between these two cedars has become so narrow that it is said, among those who visit the Fudōson temple, those who attempt to pass between the trees but who have bad hearts/ill intent will become stuck and unable to pass through.
Furthermore, on the night of July 22nd in the tenth year of the Tenpō era (1840), votive lights floated from the ocean in several villages to shine in the tops of these two large cedar trees. They continued to burn there for seven nights, and so the trees became known as The Votive Cedars.
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