Anrakuji Temple (Tako Amida)

Himakajima floats in Mikawa Bay and is known for its abundant seafood, including octopus in summer and fugu in winter. Anrakuji Temple on the island was founded in 1494 and is a Soto Zen temple affectionately known by locals as “Tako Amida.”

The nickname comes from a legend about the temple’s principal image, Amida Nyorai. A temple at Oiso, located between Himakajima and Sakushima, sank in a major earthquake, but the Amida Nyorai enshrined there was pulled up by fishermen. At that time, a giant octopus was wrapped around the statue as if protecting it, and locals are said to have enshrined it at Anrakuji Temple as “Tako Amida.” Even today, it remains an important presence for islanders praying for big catches, safety, and prosperity for their descendants. Likening it to the octopus’s habit of clinging with its suckers, many people also visit this popular matchmaking power spot to pray for a good relationship.

This temple is one of the “Minamichita Shichifukujin,” a group of nine temples and shrines in the Minamichita area. Among the Seven Lucky Gods plus two treasure ships, this is the place associated with the Turtle Treasure Ship, and many worshippers visit in hopes of completing the full pilgrimage.