Temple 17: Idoji
Emperor Tenmu (631–686) ordered this temple’s establishment in 673. It is known for its rather unusual number of statues—seven in all—of the Buddha of Healing (Bhaisajya), who is believed to answer health-related prayers. Six of the statues are replicas of those lost to fire. Only one of the original seven remains.
Kukai is said to have visited this temple in 815. Legend has it that he took pity on the local people, who were suffering from a shortage of drinking water, and dug a well with his staff. The well can still be seen today inside a small enclosure on the temple grounds. Tradition holds that if you see your face reflected in its surface, no harm will come to you for the next three years.