Located in the Marugame plains is Konzoji Temple is the 76th sacred spot along the Shikoku Henro pilgrimage, belonging to the Tendaijimon Sect and founded by Chisho Daishi Enjin.
According to writings documenting the temple’s origins and history, Konzoji Temple was built in 774 by Wake Dozen, grandfather of the Buddhist monk Chisho Daishi (Enchin). Afterwards, it is said that Chisho Daishi stayed at Konzoji Temple upon returning from his training in China during the Tang Dynasty, and erected a large building modeled after the Blue Dragon Temple from that era. He carved a statue of Healing Buddha as the principal object of worship and enshrined it at the temple.
Chisho Daishi was deeply involved with Kobo Daishi (Kukai), and served as the fifth abbot of Enryakuji Temple, which was built by the Tendai Sect founder Saicho.
Within the precincts of Konzoji Temple, there is a building called Kariteimodo Hall. This hall is based on a legend which tells of how Chisho Daishi was protected by Kariteimo (Kishimojin), and thus became a great monk. On the premises there is also the popular Sand-Stepping Hall (Osuna-Fumi Dojo), where visitors can step on sand taken from each of the 88 temples along the Shikoku Henro pilgrimage.