Makio-san Sefukuji Temple was built by the imperial decree of Emperor Kinmei shortly after the public introduction of Buddhism, in a place that was a key location for ancient maritime traffic.
It was founded by Gyoman of Kakogawa. The principal image of the temple is the 180cm tall Maitreya Bodhisattva, who preaches about living a positive life, the side image Manjusri Bodhisattva, who preaches about wisdom, was erected by Gyoki, and the left side image is the Eleven-Headed Thousand-Armed Thousand-Eyed Kannon Bodhisattva, who preaches about mercy and appeared on a purple cloud in Otsu Bay when Gyoki's disciple Hokai appeared there.
It began as a place to pray for safe voyages, and has since evolved into a sacred place of Kannon that teaches about safety, health, and purpose in life.
The Horse-Headed Kannon Foot Guardian of Emperor Kazan, the only one in Japan with the soles of the feet exposed, protects the legs and hips.
Also, the Hochigai Kannon, the only one of its kind in Japan measuring approximately 100m in height, will guide your life in a positive direction.
Power spots include Gensan Daishi, the original fortune-telling temple of warding off evil, Makio Seven Lucky Gods and the Makio Twelve Zodiacs, and the Yamagami Daido Hall.