Kaikoji

◎Denomination / Chisan School, Shingon Sect of Buddhism
◎Foundation / Keicho Era (1600s)
◎Patriarch / Kukai
◎Principal Image / Dainichi Nyorai


2 out of 6 Sokushinbutsu in Shonai are enshrined at Sokubutsudo in Shakosan Kaikoji.
This is the only temple that shrines 2 sokushinbutsu.
Legend has it that Kaikoji was founded by Kukai, the patriarch of Shingon Sect, 1,200 years ago. Chukai-shonin and Enmyokai-shonin, who endured 1,000 days of ascetic training then became sokushinbutsu in order to save people from suffering until the last days and make their wishes come true, are now enshrined at Sokushindo.
Ennichi (Buddhist night memorial service) is held from August 1 to 3 and sokushinbutsu are on exhibit at night during this period.