第三十三番 谷汲山 Stele

Whispers of ancient pilgrimages echo around the 第三十三番 谷汲山 Stele. Here at the culmination of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, the air crackles with a unique spiritual energy. The 第三十三番 谷汲山 Stele marks the final stop, the point of enlightenment and culmination of a journey spanning over 1,300 years. It’s also affectionately known as “Tanigumi-san”. This stele embodies the history and spirit of the pilgrimage. It’s a physical marker of the spiritual journey’s end. The temple associated with the stele, Kegon-ji, was founded in 798. It was established by the priest Bunen. Legend says he built the temple after a miraculous discovery of oil springing from a nearby rock cave. This oil provided light for the temple, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and dispelling the darkness of ignorance. Kegon-ji Temple, and this stele by extension, gained further importance in 944. Emperor Suzaku designated it as a prayer temple. This cemented its status as a significant religious site. The temple’s main deity is the Eleven-Faced Kannon. The temple grounds offer three distinct halls: the Kaigan-do (past), the Hon-do (present), and the Oizuru-do (future). The Oizuru-do holds particular significance for pilgrims. Here, they leave offerings, marking the completion of their arduous journey and expressing gratitude for safe passage. They touch the bronze rings on the pillars, believing they bring good luck. You can find three types of pilgrim stamps to commemorate your visit. Emperor Gomizunoo composed three waka poems that are connected to these halls and their stamps. They represent the passage of time and the journey of life itself.