Nestled in the lush mountains of Sendai, Saikōji Temple (西光寺), sometimes referred to as Akiu Ōtaki Fudōson (秋保大滝不動尊), serves as the serene spiritual gateway to the magnificent Akiu Great Falls. This historic Buddhist temple is a must-visit for travelers exploring the Akiu Onsen. The temple offers a peaceful atmosphere where ancient architecture meets the raw power of nature. Whether you are seeking a meditative break at local hot spring resorts or exploring the Tohoku region’s hidden cultural treasures, Saikoji Temple offers a captivating blend of history, seasonal beauty, and spiritual energy. From its towering ginkgo tree to its proximity to the roaring 55-meter falls, it remains a central highlight for any Sendai itinerary.
Saikoji Temple’s History
If you plan to take a bus to Akiu Great Falls, you will first encounter Saikoji Temple after you get off the bus. The temple commonly known as Akiu Ōtaki Fudōson (秋保大滝不動尊) is the inner temple of Isshakuji Temple (立石寺) in Yamagata Prefecture, erected by Jigaku Daishi (慈覚大師) from Mt. Hiei.
In 860, when Jigaku Daishi was on his way back to Kyoto, he received a divine message and carved a Fudō Myōō statue (不動明王). This is the origin of Saikōji.
Another version of the event sequence is that Jigaku Daishi underwent a 100-day rough training at Akiu Ōtaki Falls before establishing Isshakuji.
About Saikoji Temple’s Worship Hall: Akiu Ōtaki Fudōdō
The current Akiu Ōtaki Fudōdō Hall was reconstructed by a monk called Chisoku Shōnin (知足上人) in 1825. It enshrines Saikoji’s main image, Akiu Otaki Fudoson.
As you get closer to the worship hall, you will be stunned by his size as he is 3.3 meters tall. The flame attached to his back is as high as 5 meters!
The giant bronze statue was completed with Chisoku Shōnin’s effort. It is said that after he saw the statue completed, he jumped into the Akiu Great Falls while praying that the statue would have the power to grant people’s wishes. Since then, the temple has become a popular spot for pilgrims seeking help from a deity.
So if you have something you need help with, how about asking Akiu Otaki Fudoson for assistance?
In addition, it is said that if you can find a Koi fish on the pillar’s carving, you will be blessed with good relationships!
In spring, during the Akiu Ōtaki Fudōson Festival (秋保大滝不動尊大祭), Akiu’s Rice Planting Dance (秋保の田植踊) is performed to entertain the Fudōson. The dance was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Saikoji Temple’s Opening Hours and Access Information
- Saikoji Temple’s office is open from 9 am to 5 pm.
- Please refer to the “How to Get to Akiu Onsen” section of our Akiu Onsen article for information on accessing Akiu Onsen. Whether you plan to take Miyagi Kōtsū or Sendai City Bus, get off at Akiu Ōtaki (秋保大滝).
Tip: You can source some fresh local produce and/or a plate of pasta or pizza from Ōtaki Rest House (大滝れすとはうす) at the entrance of Akiu Ōtaki Fudōson in the photo.
From Saikoji Temple to Akiu Great Falls
At the back of Akiu Otaki Fudodo, you will find the temple’s infamous giant ginkgo tree. The rope tied around the tree bark makes it clear that the ginkgo is another object of worship at Saikoji. So we put our hands on the bark for a few moments, hoping to gain some power from the old but magnificent tree!
The passageway next to the ginkgo leads to Akiu Great Falls’ observation deck.
Discover the Magnificence of Akiu Great Fall
Akiu Ōtaki Falls (秋保大滝), also known as the Akiu Great Falls (or simply Akiu Falls), is the must-see spot in Akiu Onsen. The 55-meter-tall waterfall is just spectacular, no matter which season you visit. It was thus chosen as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls and designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty.
For more information about this spectacular waterfall in Sendai, refer to our article on Akiu Great Falls!
