Did you know Nagao Temple is more than just a place of worship? It is a place with a story that stretches back centuries.
Nagao Temple is known locally as Nagao no Kannon-san. It is also called Temple of Chikaramochi and Shizukagozen Tokudo. The temple’s history is rich with legends and transformations.
Some believe Prince Shotoku Taishi founded it. However, most say the monk Gyoki founded Nagao Temple in 739. Legend says Gyoki had a vision by a willow tree. He carved a statue of Sho Kannon Bosatsu from that tree. This statue became the temple’s main image.
Later, Kobo Daishi visited Nagao Temple. He prayed for seven nights seeking a successful journey to China. He also prayed for the nation’s safety and a good harvest. These prayers continue to this day. The Daieyo event is held every January 7th. People pray to ward off evil and for a good harvest.
Returning from China, Kobo Daishi revisited Nagao Temple. He copied the Dainichikyo. He wrote one character per stone. He built a memorial tower and converted the temple to the Shingon sect.
Many emperors honored Nagao Temple. However, fire destroyed it during the Tensho era except for the Hondo. Matsudaira Yorishige, a feudal lord, repaired Nagao Temple during the Edo period. At that time, the temple became part of the Tendai sect.
Nagao Temple has Nagao Tenman Jizentenjingu. During the Heian period, a monk named Meiin lived at Nagao Temple. He befriended Sugawara no Michizane. Sugawara was the Lord of Sanuki. In 902, Sugawara was demoted and sent to Kyushu. Meiin sent him a poem to console him. Sugawara returned the gesture with a poem and self-portrait. In 1710, the Tenman Jizentenjingu was built. It honors Sugawara no Michizane as the mountain’s guardian deity.
The Hondo was rebuilt in 1683 by Matsudaira Yorishige. The principal image survived many fires. It is considered the best of Sanuki’s seven Kannons. It is kept hidden from public view.
Nagao Temple also features the Shizugozen Shaved Hair Mound. Shizugozen and her mother became nuns. Her hair is buried in this mound.
Several annual events take place at Nagao Temple. The Hatsu Tenjin on January 25th celebrates Sugawara no Michizane. It includes a writing brush prayer ritual. The Autumn Grand Festival is held on the second Sunday of October.
Nagao Temple stands as a testament to faith. It shows resilience through centuries of change. It is still a vital part of the community. Its history is etched in every stone.