Iwamoto Temple

Iwamoto-ji Temple stands as the 37th temple on the renowned Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage, located in Shimanto, Kōchi Prefecture. This Chisan Shingon temple was founded by the revered Buddhist monk Gyōki between 729-749 CE, following an imperial command from Emperor Shōmu who sought to establish a system of provincial temples across Japan. Originally, Gyōki constructed a group of seven temples to represent the seven stars and seven good fortunes described in Buddhist teachings, designed to ward off seven evils.

The temple enshrines five deities: Fudō Myō-ō, Shō Kannon, Amida Nyōrai, Yakushi Nyorai, and Jizō Bosatsu. During the Warring States Period and Edo Period (1603-1867), Iwamoto-ji received donations from warlords and feudal lords, flourishing as a Buddhist temple that combined Shinto and Buddhist teachings. The temple faced closure in 1871 during the early Meiji period's suppression of Buddhism but reopened in 1889.

What distinguishes Iwamoto-ji from other pilgrimage temples is its remarkable fusion of traditional Buddhism with contemporary art. When the main hall was refurbished in 1978, the ceiling was adorned with 575 paintings donated by artists from across Japan. Visitors can observe traditional Buddhist imagery alongside unexpected works inspired by Renoir, Marilyn Monroe, sailboats, cats, and giraffes. This artistic tradition continues today through collaborations with pop artists who add vibrant colors to the temple grounds.

The temple offers unique accommodation in colorful, pop-art inspired rooms within the temple grounds, as well as camping options near the main hall. Visitors can participate in diverse experiences including sake tasting, a "temple sauna," and Buddhist spiritual training along the nearby Shimanto River. The temple's distinctive omikuji fortune papers are shaped like the current year's zodiac animal, available in English with humorous animal-related puns.

Iwamoto-ji is easily accessible via a 10-minute walk from Kubokawa Station on the Dosan Line, which also connects to the Yodo Line linking Kōchi to Ehime Prefecture. By car, the temple is approximately 10 minutes from Shimantocho-chuo IC on the Kochi Expressway. Activity prices vary by program, and visitors should check the temple's website for detailed pricing information.