Buddhist temple
Sōhonzan Zentsū-ji
総本山 善通寺（そうほんざん／ぜんつうじ）
Zentsūji, Kagawa Prefecture
A temple that passes down the tradition of being the birthplace of Kōbō Daishi. It has the Tōin (eastern precinct) with its temple buildings and the Saiin (western precinct), called the Tanjōin, where you can become familiar with the Daishi's life.
English pages are the site’s own translations of its Japanese pages. The sources cited are in Japanese. 日本語で読む
Prayers associated with this place
Birthplace of Kōbō Daishi Kūkai
History and things to know
According to the temple's tradition, Kūkai built it after returning from Tang China, on land donated by his father. The Saiin is said to be the site of the residence of the Saeki family, his birth family, and faith in the Daishi is carried on centered on the Mieidō.
Introduced by this site, based on materials from the shrine or temple and public bodies.
Related kami and buddhas
Before you visit
The Tōin and the Saiin differ in the roles of their halls and in the places open to visitors. Please check your route in the precinct guide.
Official website of the shrine or temple (may be in Japanese)
Sources (in Japanese)
- 総本山 善通寺「御祭神・御本尊・由緒の公式案内」（2026-10-16 確認）
This site is independent of the shrines, temples, and other websites mentioned. No partnership or endorsement is implied.