Hōgon-ji is a temple of the Ji Buddhist sect in Matsuyama. It’s known as the birthplace of Ippen, who founded the Ji (time) sect as an offshoot of the Jōdo or Pure Land sect in 1276. Disciples of Ippen sought enlightenment by chanting the name of Amida and dancing ecstatically. Ippen is depicted in numerous statues as a humble ascetic, skinny as a stick from all his traveling.
- 1 min read
Hogon-ji Temple in Dogo, Matsuyama
Birthplace of Ippen, the wandering saint

By Anonymous
Community writer

Hogon-ji stands at the top of the slope called Neon Zaka, Matsuayama's old red light district

The gateway to Hogon-ji is imposing

The double roof provides welcome respite from an April shower

The temple stands in pretty, heavily wooded grounds

Besides the natural greenery, the temple keepers have prettified the precincts with many flowers

The doors to the main hall are beautifully carved

A characterful dragon guards one of the subsidiary buildings

Behind the temple is a large graveyard. Here spring plums litter the ground between the graves

The character for 'spirit' that makes up the Japanese word for 'graveyard'

You can potter around the graveyard and enjoy the statuary on the graves

The main hall through a veil of wet foliage
Join the discussion
Preethu
8 years ago
Nice Place.
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
2
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
3
One Full Day in Kamogawa From Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa
Chiba - Sponsored -
4
7 Must-See Temples and Shrines in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Explore Kujukuri, Chiba and Beyond
Chiba - Sponsored -
6
Japanese Convenience Store Coffee: Ultimate Guide
Food -
7
Asakusa GYUUNA Yadoki: Premium Eel & Wagyu Beef in Asakusa
Tokyo -
8
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
9
Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
10
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Edogawa Fireworks Festival
Tokyo -
3
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
6
Summer Comiket
Tokyo -
7
September Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8
Nara Tokae Lantern Festival
Nara -
9
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
10
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo