Gokokuji Temple on Awaji Island is part of the Awaji Island Seven Sacred Sites of Good Fortune and enshrines the deity Hotei. This temple is known as a place that brings about family happiness and harmony.
This ancient temple was founded by Gyokyo Shonin. The principal image of Dainichi Nyorai, a contused statue of the Buddha, represents the Womb Realm in its benevolent form, and has a history of more than 1,000 years. Gyokyo Shonin practiced Buddhism at Daian-ji Temple in Yamato and later worked as Denryo Daiboji. He made a pilgrimage to Buzen Usa Hachimangu Shrine in 869 and spent more than two years here. This place is a historical site with deep ties to Gyokyo Shonin.
Hotei is said to be an incarnation of Yatso Bosatsu, a saint from the Five Dynasties period in China. He symbolizes magnanimity and harmony, and teaches people patience and harmony. Hotei is known for holding treasures that do not belong to him and for his compassionate gifts to those in need. His large earlobes symbolize listening to others and storing up and magnifying what should not be said. Hotei represents the ideal in human relationships.
The Hotei Festival is held every April.
GOKOKUJI Basic Information
| Name | GOKOKUJI |
| Address | 732, Kashuhachiman, Minami-Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Phone | 0799-54-0259 |
| Official WEB | - |
| Opening hours | 8:00-17:00 (visitation is available 24 hours a day) |
| Closed | None |
| Admission | Free |
| Parking | Yes |
| Parking fee | Free |
| Access | Public transportation: 12 minutes (850m) from Goryo-mae (bus), bound for Fukura on the Jukan Line [via Torii]. Car: 8 minutes (5.1kkm) from Seitan-Mihara IC |