The 49th temple of the Shikoku 88 Sacred Places pilgrimage, an ancient temple in central Matsuyama enshrining Shakyamuni Buddha. Traditionally founded by Gyoki at Emperor Shomu's imperial request, and later visited by Kobo Daishi who carved the principal image and performed religious rites. Despite its city-center location, the lush grounds retain a well-ordered main gate, main hall, and Daishi-do…

Jodoji Temple is said to have been founded in 749 CE by the monk Gyoki, by imperial decree of Emperor Shomu. According to tradition, during the Konin era (810–824), the monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) visited the site, carved a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, and performed religious rites, establishing the te…