Enmyouji Temple

Enmyouji is Temple Number 53 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, a petite but historically significant Buddhist temple in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture. The compact grounds hold a notable dragon statue that guards the entrance and, more unusually, a Christian memorial stone dating to the Edo period, when Christianity was banned in Japan and practitioners worshipped in secret. This hidden artifact makes Enmyouji unique among the pilgrimage temples and speaks to the complex religious history of the region. The temple is within walking distance of the Dogo Onsen area, making it easy to include in an afternoon exploring Matsuyama's spiritual and bathing heritage.