Motoyamaji Temple, the 70th sacred spot of the Shikoku Henro pilgrimage, is located on the right side of the Saita River, which gently flows through the vast countryside.
According to writings documenting its origins and history, Motoyamaji Temple was built in just one night when Kobo Daishi (Kukai) visited the spot in the year 807. It is said that Kobo Daishi carved a sculpture of the Horse-Headed Kannon, and enshrined it as the principal image of worship inside the building.
Passing through the Nio Gate, registered as an important cultural property by the national government, you will find the main hall located at the front of the temple grounds. Built nearly 700 years ago during the Kamakura period, the main hall of Motoyamaji Temple has been designated as a national treasure, along with the main hall of Kandanijinja Shrine located in Sakaide City.
Buildings neatly line either side of the promenade leading up to the main hall, including a hall for worship of the tutelary god, and a hall dedicated to the ten rulers of the afterlife in Buddhism. There is also a bell tower, a Daishido Hall, and to the left of the main hall, a five-story pagoda built in the Meiji Period (1868-1912). Other five-story pagodas in the prefecture include Honenji Temple in Takamatsu, Shidoji Temple in Sanuki and Zentsuji Temple in Zentsuji City.
Since there are no tall buildings in the area, the five-story pagoda at Motoyamaji Temple can be seen from afar, guiding pilgrims as they make their way toward the temple.